Sale 214 Lot 488

CONGOLESE KONGO RITUAL BELL Democratic Republic of the Congo This Kongo bell from the Democratic Republic of the Congo is an exquisite ritual object that merges functional acoustics with high-status sculptural art. Carved from a rich, reddish-brown wood with a lustrous patina, the bell’s body is a flattened, ovoid chamber resting on two small peg-like feet, its surface meticulously incised with a central swirling solar motif and geometric cross-hatching that likely represents the four moments of the sun and the cyclical nature of life. Surmounting the bell is a finely carved human figure in a dynamic, forward-leaning posture, exhibiting the classic Kongo aesthetic of a rounded head, expressive facial features, and a serene gaze directed slightly upward. Traditionally, such bells were used by ritual specialists, such as the nganga, to summon ancestral spirits, punctuate legal proclamations, or rhythmically accompany healing ceremonies, with the carved figure acting as a spiritual intermediary to ensure the efficacy of the ritual communication. Height: 16 inches
$120-160