Congolese Tribal Hunting Fetish with Bone Beak, Based

Half bird, half leather, with a beak ready to open.

This hunting fetish was made in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, in the 20th century, from bone, leather and wood. Objects of this kind, built with animal parts, are commonly associated with protection or success in hunting, though their specific meanings vary. A long, parted beak of bone curves out of a dark leather head and neck stitched along its seam. A leather strap loops near the base. It stands on a black metal mount.

About 15 inches tall. Dramatic in profile, and just a little unsettling.