Mbole Ofika Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo

Mbole Ofika Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo The Ofika are representations of a hanged prisoner. These statues served as a warning to anyone who wanted to break the rules of the Lilwa, power association. Bambole are a people whose rites have remained rather mysterious to us. The society of the Lilwa (which could be compared to the Bwami of the Lega) organized the social structure, ensured the stability of the community and punished those who transgressed (among other things the well-kept secrets) Their art is best known for the famous "OFIKA", sculptures of hanged criminals, masks are more rare.  They live in the "central basin", they are neighbors of the Kela, the Yela, the Jonga and the Lengola Ethnic Group: Mbole (Bambole), Yela. Origin: Democratic Republic Congo (ex Zaïre, ex Belgian Congo). Material: Wood, shells (cowries) Measurements: About 13 3/4 high. Condition: Medium - Bad This Male Figure takes the form of a Hanged Man, an image central to Mbole's Initiation Practic