Rare Large Vintage Bakota Gabon Reliquary Kota Mask Figure African Carved Wood.

This is a Kota reliquary figure, specifically a Mbulu-ngulu, from the Bakota people of Gabon. These figures served as guardians of ancestral relics, which were kept in containers made of bark or basketry. The Mbulu-ngulu would be placed on top of the container, its form meant to communicate the relics´ power. Key features of the figure include:Material: Hand-carved wood. Design:The figure has a distinctive two-dimensional appearance, with a diamond-shaped base representing the body and a projecting shape above the face indicating an elaborate coiffure. Symbolism:The figures are highly symbolic and spiritual, intended to protect and honor the remains of important ancestors. They represent the connection between the living and the dead, ensuring the continued influence and protection of the ancestors. Cultural Significance:The Bakota people, who reside in the northeastern region of Gabon and Congo, used these figures in ancestor worship rituals. The relics, often bones and skulls, were believed to retain power after death, offering protection and good fortune to descendants. These figures are considered iconic in African art and have influenced modern art, particularly the works of European artists like Picasso and Matisse. They are highly sought after by collectors and appreciated for their craftsmanship, cultural significance, and spiritual symbolism.Measurements” 11.5”x 9.5”