Reliquary Guardian Figure (Boumba Bwiti)
Arts of Africa
The Tsogho, like other groups in Gabon, construct bundles, often decorated with carved figures, to contain the remains of important ancestors and other powerful materials. Among the Tsogho, these bundles commemorate specific ancestors. Periodically, offerings are made to the reliquary, or boumba bwiti, to honor the ancestor and other members of the lineage. Families may also use the figures during initiations.
MEDIUM
Wood, raffia, metal, bark cloth, glass, feathers
DATES
late 19th or early 20th century
ACCESSION NUMBER
74.121.7
CREDIT LINE
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John A. Friede
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION
Wooden figure consisting of a head and long neck attached to a reliquary bundle. Figure has powdered red tukula wood coloring, and reddish brown stained glass eyes. Thin metal strips have been attached to forehead and neck. Strips have a hammered pointed design. Two reddish-black feathers emerge from reliquary bundle on right side of figure. Bundle covered with various plant and other substances held together by crisscrossed fiber ropes. CONDITION: Very good, but fragile. Fibers in front of bundle coming loose; fiber ropes dry and some slightly brittle. Figure is attached to modern metal stand.
MUSEUM LOCATION
This item is not on view
CAPTION
Tsogho. Reliquary Guardian Figure (Boumba Bwiti), late 19th or early 20th century. Wood, raffia, metal, bark cloth, glass, feathers, 12 x 7 1/2 in. (30.5 x 18.4 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John A. Friede, 74.121.7. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 74.121.7_front_PS6.jpg)
IMAGE
front, 74.121.7_front_PS6.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2011
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RIGHTS STATEMENT
Creative Commons-BY
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