Congolese Wood Statue: Male

Scarified cheeks, a banded collar, and a very direct look.

Carvers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made this male statue in wood in the 20th century. Standing figures in the region are commonly associated with ancestors, status or protective power. The figure has a tall crest of hair, incised patterns across a rounded face, and a wide carved collar above a narrow torso marked with decoration. The arms hang by the sides above bent knees. The wood is blackened and glossy, with reddish wear at the feet and elbows.

About 13 inches tall. Small, dark and direct, it takes charge of a bookshelf.