Fetish Figure

ClassificationsSculpture

Culture Yaka

Date20th Century

Made AtDemocratic Republic of the Congo, Africa

MediumWood, fabric and fiber

Dimensions9 5/16 x 4 1/8 x 3 7/8 in. (23.7 x 10.5 x 9.8 cm)

Credit LineGift of Dwight V. Strong

Object number83.32.18

DescriptionUsed among the Yaka tribe of Zaire to support or contain special concoctions or powers. When charged with these ingredients, they become medicines-poisons that "make ill" through an invisible (supernatural) influence - or "make well" by removing this influence. Owned by specific lineages rather than individuals. The man or woman who becomes cured is entitled to become its ritual officer or nganga ('doctor'). Mbwoolo figures are passed on from generation to generation.

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