Katanda figure – Wood – Lega – DR Congo

Powerfull wooden Katanda Janus figure from the Lega tribe of DR Congo. Within the context of the Bwami society one finds a number of fixed representations of important social themes. One is Katanda.
Katanda or sleeping mat stands for the adulterous woman who mocks the rules of modesty and faithfulness to be expected of the wife of a high-placed official of Bwami. This figure has flat arms and body pierced with holes and a square lower body and ditto legs. This example is made from wood and has a great patina due to much handling.

For the literature see: Daniel P. Biebuyck: Lega, Brussels, 2002 p. 121

Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany. Custom made stand is included in this lot!