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Mbulu Ngulu Reliquary Figure

Collection: African Art Collection
Description: This intricate carving is made of wood and covered with copper or brass. The carving features the face of a person. The simplified face is a straight line and two eyes. A variety of geometrical decorations exist throughout the attached metal, including two apparent sun figures on the lobes. The side locks point to this carving being a woman. The carving has a built-up patina on the metal. The carving is in excellent condition.
Artists/Makers: The Bakota Gabon Read Biography

The Bakota

GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: Gabon, Bakota. The Mbulu Ngulu reliquary figure originated from Bakota tribal group of eastern Gabon. The Bakota (Kota) are a Bantu ethnic group. The Bakota are traditionally a patriarchal society. The language they speak is known as Ikota. The true meaning of Bakota is unclear. However, many believe the name Bakota relates to the local word for bird, which is kota. The Bakota incorporate ancestor into their religious beliefs.
Student Work: No
Culture: Bakota
Geography: Gabon
Medium: Wood and metal (Brass or copper)
Classification: Ritual Object
Accession Number: 2022.01.019
Accession Date: May 2022
Donated By: Reginald and Celeste Hodges
Donation Date: May 2022