This is a really Unique Mbete Statue from the Kota Peoples of Gabon. They were tribes of secret societies quite large and powerful. The Mbete do not have any centralized political organization; they practice ancestor worship. They are thought to have a connection with the ancestor’s cult and they were either used as reliquaries or placed alongside ancestor bones in a basket.
The busts, figures, statues and masks of the Mbete are cubist in structure, the stepped hair-dress having clearly-marked gradations, and the face frequently being painted white. This particular Bust Hemet is rare and would be a wonderful addition to your home or collection.
Circa 1980's.
Materials: Medium: Wood
Measurements:
Height: 21"
Width: 6"
Depth: 5.5"
