Teke - Drc

Wood, fabrics, "Bilongo"

Provenance
R.DAVID, Walu gallery, Switzerland, 1969
E.HESS, Switzerland

Literature
BATEKE "Les fétiches", Alain LECOMTE, Raoul LEHUARD
Statuaire du STANLEY POOL, Raoul LEHUARD

The Butti fetish is an emblematic representation of the Teke ethnic group, originally from Congo. These ritualistic sculptures play an essential role in the spirituality of the Teke, serving as mediators between the world of the living and that of the ancestors. Fashioned from natural materials, the Butti is often decorated with symbolic motifs and embodies deep values and beliefs of this culture. It is often used during rituals to guarantee protection, prosperity and harmony within the community.The headdress is Mupani style, it is a stylized crest. The mouth, ritually important, is prominent. The beard, mustache, and hair form a single mass. The body is wrapped in various magical substances by the Nganga in a package. This composition of various ingredients is called Bilongo.
According to Mr. HESS's collection sheet, this object was exhibited in Oberwil in 1990 and Arlesheim in 1994. (document include with the object)