Yaka Yimbila whistle
€150.00
Yaka — Kwango region, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Carved wood, dark brown patina
Ndemba type, also referred to as yimbila in some classifications and on the art market
Custom-made display stand included
Description
This remarkable Yaka hunting whistle combines instrumental function and figurative sculpture with striking economy. Its strongly rounded body is surmounted by an anthropomorphic head displaying characteristic features: elongated eyes set within broad orbital volumes, a strongly projecting nose and a sculpturally modelled crest-like coiffure. Two lateral ducts allow the sound to be modulated while giving the object an almost architectural construction. The deep brown-black patina, polished in places, suggests a surface shaped by repeated handling.
Among the Yaka of the Kwango region, hunting whistles formed part of the material culture associated with major communal hunts. Whistles of the ndemba type were notably carried by hunting leaders, their high-pitched notes serving to transmit signals, summon participants and recall hunting dogs. The addition of a human image transforms this functional instrument into an object of considerable sculptural and social presence.
With its compact silhouette, expressive modelling and particularly successful balance between the anthropomorphic head and globular body, this example possesses remarkable visual authority despite its intimate scale.
The custom-made stand is included, providing a gallery-quality presentation.
Shipping fees
02735
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 12 cm (18 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- B. Berete Collection
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Very good
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Yaka — Kwango region, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Carved wood, dark brown patina
Ndemba type, also referred to as yimbila in some classifications and on the art market
Custom-made display stand included
Description
This remarkable Yaka hunting whistle combines instrumental function and figurative sculpture with striking economy. Its strongly rounded body is surmounted by an anthropomorphic head displaying characteristic features: elongated eyes set within broad orbital volumes, a strongly projecting nose and a sculpturally modelled crest-like coiffure. Two lateral ducts allow the sound to be modulated while giving the object an almost architectural construction. The deep brown-black patina, polished in places, suggests a surface shaped by repeated handling.
Among the Yaka of the Kwango region, hunting whistles formed part of the material culture associated with major communal hunts. Whistles of the ndemba type were notably carried by hunting leaders, their high-pitched notes serving to transmit signals, summon participants and recall hunting dogs. The addition of a human image transforms this functional instrument into an object of considerable sculptural and social presence.
With its compact silhouette, expressive modelling and particularly successful balance between the anthropomorphic head and globular body, this example possesses remarkable visual authority despite its intimate scale.
The custom-made stand is included, providing a gallery-quality presentation.