165 - Ofika ritual statue, known as the “hanged man figure,” Mbole, DR Congo.

Ofika ritual statue, known as the “hanged man figure,” Mbole, DR Congo. An imposing wooden sculpture of a man, depicted in a stooped posture, with bent knees and long arms hanging down at his sides. The face, with half-closed eyes, a slightly parted mouth, and finely defined features, is topped by a headdress with two extensions. The work features a remarkable brown-black patina, contrasting with significant ancient gray-white deposits, possibly of ritual origin, as well as numerous signs of wear. The Ofika figures, associated with the Lilwa initiatory society, traditionally evoke those condemned to hanging for transgressing initiatory rules and secrets. Their depiction served, in particular, as a warning to the initiates. Comparative references: Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, inv. 1978.412.571; Cleveland Museum of Art, inv. 2016.33. Height: 52 cm