Male Power figure

Museum number: UEM21037 

Material: Wood, iron 

Region and culture: Ibembe 

Description: Power figure with spiritual attributions. Its strong, visual expression reflects the power that this figure is representing. This power figure was produced through a cooperation with a Congolese sculptor and a ritual specialist. The power figure has the ability to heal sickness, solve conflicts, protect established peace and punish those who wish to hurt others. The visible teeth are supposed to visualize aggression For instance, the nails hammered into the figure represent sufferings or ill wishes to those who have done harm. Height is approx. 60 cm. 

This power figure was given to the Ethnographic museum by Dr. Inge Heiberg and is a part of the Heiberg collection. 1903-1920.