Giguma Mbala headrest - SOLD OUT
Prestigious objects linked to political power, headrests or neckrests are part of household furniture and are generally placed under the chin and ear to support the head during sleep. The Mbala are known in African Congo art for their caryatid headrest, a female figurine supporting the seat. They are called Giguma. It symbolizes a chief laying his head on his people, which means that he must listen to him.
These objects are very rare. A copy is known at the Belgian museum in Tervuren.
00816
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 16 x 26 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Excellent
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Prestigious objects linked to political power, headrests or neckrests are part of household furniture and are generally placed under the chin and ear to support the head during sleep. The Mbala are known in African Congo art for their caryatid headrest, a female figurine supporting the seat. They are called Giguma. It symbolizes a chief laying his head on his people, which means that he must listen to him.
These objects are very rare. A copy is known at the Belgian museum in Tervuren.