Half-Figure

late 1800s–early 1900s

Half-Figure, late 1800s–early 1900s. Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, probably Kusu-style maker. Wood and iron; overall: 20 x 6.8 x 8.5 cm (7 7/8 x 2 11/16 x 3 3/8 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, René and Odette Delenne Collection, Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund 2010.457 Iron tacks inserted into the lobes of the hairdo indicate that this sculpture was originally empowered with magical and medicinal substances. Thus charged, the figure would have been used in divination and was related to a powerful association known as Bugabo. Members specialized in healing, hunting, and fighting crime. This figure would have been used in a powerful association known as Bugabo, specializing in healing, hunting, and fighting crime.