African Tribal Statue Osseyba or Reliquary Figure Kota Mohongwe Peoples Art

A fantastically hand-crafted piece by the Kota (or Bakota) tribe who are located in the northeastern region of Gabon. This figure, which is a Mahongwe reliquary figure as exhibited with its truncated almond-shaped face, is made of wound copper, hammered brass and wood. Reliquary figures were used as guardians to protect the revered bones of venerated family ancestors and leaders and ward off unwanted spirits. These figures are meant to embody intense powers and were also commonly used in communal rites and ritual performances.

This particular piece came from an American collector who traveled the African continent and collected African artifacts for over 50 years. This piece has a beautiful, organically aged patina acquired naturally over time and use. It is mounted on a custom wooden display stand.

We believe it dates back to the early to mid-1900s but could be older. We are listing as 20th century because we did not have it appraised.

This African Tribal Statue Osseyba or Reliquary Figure Kota (Bakota) Mohongwe Peoples decorative art would clearly stand out as part of a collection or by itself in any setting.

Truly unique, eye-catching and engaging.

Dimensions on stand: 25 3/4" High, 7" Wide, 5 1/2" Deep

Kota Reliquary figures resemble human forms reduced to their most basic flattened geometrical elements and are made from hand carved wood accented with hammered brass, often taken from imported European dishes, and coiled copper.

Many of these reliquary works were destroyed, burned or thrown into lakes by missionaries in the early to mid 20th century to repress the Kota peoples and ancestor cults that made them. As a result, the tribespeople were forced to hide them in secret, often in ancient cemeteries deep in the forest, to protect their rites, practices, and rituals. Today Kota reliquary figures have become nearly iconic in the world of art and are often recognizable by Western viewers.