Hanged Figure

Item

Accession Number: 2024.78.
Title: Hanged Figure
Ethnic Group: Kongo
Subject: Object|Ritual|Central Africa
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date: Early 20th century
Medium: Wood, glass, vegetal fibers
Format: H x W x D: 11 3/4 in x 5 1/4 in x 8 1/2 in (29.845 cm x 13.335 cm x 21.59 cm)
Description: A figurative sculpture depicting a hanged man with arms tied behind his back. Facial features are exaggerated and stylized, with a fiber headdress on top of his head. This sculpture is seen as a cult figure that could be used to warn criminals who might face the fearful penalty for their unethical actions.
Type: Power Figure