A TEKE POWER FIGURE

Standing male sculpture, clan ancestor figure, demystified, the ( bilongo )power substances were removed.
Figures like these are meant to have apotropaic functions and they are carved for serveral reasons ranging from protection to assistance in instances of illness. The hollow space in the torso and probalbly also the space between the legs were originally filled with a substance ( sometimes of human remains) believed to posses a magical power to heal or protect. The figures carved by Teke artist are like this example characterized by slightly bent legs, a columnar torso and enlarged head with typical linear facial scarifications and a trapezoidal beard.