Object Notes

Femininity, composure, intense concentration, and, most importantly, maternity are epitomized in Yombe mother and child figures. An upswept miter-like hairstyle or hat frames the mother's face, with its carefully composed expression.

This janus, or bi-faced, reliquary guardian figure is one of the most abstract depictions of the human figure in African art. Its facial features are minimized, and its body is reduced to a diamond-shaped lozenge. The flared crescent above its head represents a headdress, and cylindrical ear ornaments hang beneath the coiffure.

This figure depicts a tall, slender female of naturalistic proportions who is adorned with beaded necklaces and scarification.

Bwami ritual objects include figures and miniature nonfunctional tools carved out of ivory, bone, and wood.