[Untitled]
Item
Accession Number
2024.7.
Subject
Figure|Ritual|Central Africa
Country
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
Wood, kaolin, twine, feathers, other natural material
Format
H x W x D: 9.05 in x 7.87 in x 7.87 in (23 cm x 20 cm x 20 cm)
Description
The Lega religious figure is known as the Sakimatwematwe, meaning "the man with many heads". In the Lega community, the figure represents qualities such as wisdom and discernment, allowing the owner to see all sides of an issue in order to have success in their choices. The figure is round with roughly eight faces wrapping around the spherical shape. The stout form rests upon four thick legs with carved lines signifying toes. Atop the rounded center of the figure, a plume of feathers sticks out of small portion of natural material and wrapped twine.
Type
Religious Figure / Sacred Figure
Conforms To
Lega