Zande Yanda figure
€175.00
Small Zande Yanda power figure, carved in a deliberately schematic and highly abstract style. The hemispherical head, short massive legs and compact silhouette are characteristic of this sculptural tradition. Much of the body is covered with a thick ritual accumulation incorporating small beads, while large metal rings are attached to either side of the head.
Yanda figures were associated with the Mani society, a religious association among the Zande concerned with protection, well-being and the welfare of its members. These figures could be used in divinatory and protective contexts, particularly against illness, witchcraft and other forms of misfortune. Over time, ritual substances and offerings were repeatedly applied to them, producing the dense encrusted surfaces seen on some older examples. Beads, metal elements and other ornaments could also be added as votive offerings.
This example is particularly striking for its heavily encrusted surface and the contrast between the radical simplicity of the carved form and the richness of its accumulated ritual additions.
Shipping fees
02752
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- 2nd half XXth
- Size
- 18 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Condition
- Very good
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Small Zande Yanda power figure, carved in a deliberately schematic and highly abstract style. The hemispherical head, short massive legs and compact silhouette are characteristic of this sculptural tradition. Much of the body is covered with a thick ritual accumulation incorporating small beads, while large metal rings are attached to either side of the head.
Yanda figures were associated with the Mani society, a religious association among the Zande concerned with protection, well-being and the welfare of its members. These figures could be used in divinatory and protective contexts, particularly against illness, witchcraft and other forms of misfortune. Over time, ritual substances and offerings were repeatedly applied to them, producing the dense encrusted surfaces seen on some older examples. Beads, metal elements and other ornaments could also be added as votive offerings.
This example is particularly striking for its heavily encrusted surface and the contrast between the radical simplicity of the carved form and the richness of its accumulated ritual additions.