Mbwoolo Shrine Figure Representing Ancestors or Deity with Initiate on Shoulders

Origin: Yaka Tribe, Congo
Composition: wood

Historically, the Yaka carve figures of deities and ancestors for use in Mbwoolo shrines. They sometimes have the roles of healing and preventing illness. The exact meaning of this mysterious piece, with a figure on the shoulders of another, is unknown, but it may represent a deity or ancestor carrying an initiate, representing a rite of passage of a young intiate. It is quite a beautiful piece with great symbolism, and was purchased in the Congo in 2001 directly from the Yaka tribe.

The Yaka people live along the Wamba River and migrated from Angola during the 16th century. Yaka society is tightly structured and headed by a chief of Lunda origin, the Kiamfu, who delegates responsibilities to ministers and lineage chiefs. The Yaka live primarily from hunting, although subsidiary farming is undertaken by the women (ref. Tribal Arts of Africa). Est. mid to late-20th century in age.