Antique Phemba Yombe Folk Art Maternity Figure Sculpture

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A rare opportunity to own a scarce large antique wooden Phemba maternity figure sculpture, hand carved and painted with exceptional … Read more A rare opportunity to own a scarce large antique wooden Phemba maternity figure sculpture, hand carved and painted with exceptional skill. Born in the Kindom of the Kongo region of Central Africa in the early 20th century, present day the area is known as Angola, Republic of the Congo and Gabon. Intricately decorated, the interesting carving is polychrome painted, featuring a seated mother, holding child, rising on rectangular base.

Phemba, also known as Yombe maternity figures, refers to sculptural objects that depict the figures of a mother and child. Phemba are iconic examples of Kongo art and according to Thompson (1981) "reflect the degree to which women are treasured in Kongo culture, not just for their fecundity, but as seers and guardians of the spirit." Kongo societies are matrilineal.

Dimensions (approx):
19.5"h, 6.5"w, 10"d, 6.4lbs See less