A fantastic Reliquary Kota Mahongwe Guardian figure / mask from the Kota Mahogwe Tribe, Gabon. The Kota celebrate cults based upon the belief of the soul's performance after death. Each figurine corresponds to a specific ancestor and was a symbolic representation of him. The Kota are known for these exquisite pieces which in tribal use are placed on top of a box containing the bones of their ancestors. The the wooden head of this figure is wrapped in beaten copper and brass whilst the neck area is wrapped with string. It is also a double headed figure with a head at the rear. The lower body of the figure has beaten copper placed around the legs and shoulders. Reduced to a group of signs having little in common with a real human face, such sculpture retains only a pair of eyes, generally set in the middle of the figure. The curved lines descending from these "eyes" have been interpreted as tears. The mouth has completely disapeared because the deceased do not speak. A cylindrical bun summounts the face. The entire piece gives off the intense spirituality of this almost dreamlike version. For its age this figure is in great condition with only slight damage to the left foot as seen in the photos.

Any questions or for additional photos please email me. To save on shipping costs you are welcome to combine items form The Ebony Tree. Unfortunately some of our items are expensive to ship due to there size & weight, we only charge what it costs to mail parcels from South Africa. All items from The Ebony Tree are spray treated for any parasites.