Item Description: A male figure that incorporates icons of power from the top of the head to the buttocks. The figure is covered with scarification patterns. There is a 6” truncated horn-like structure protruding from the head.

Cultural Profile: The Ndengese inhabit the northern part of the Kasai-Sankuru stylistic region. They are neighbors of the Kuba. This highly decorative structure is a power figure. The position of the hand represents authority, and the horned headpiece symbolizes wisdom and intelligence. Statues such as this hold the clothing and power of the king after he dies, until they are transferred to the new king/chief in an installation ceremony. The mass of scarifications carved over the body of the Ndengese chiefly statue is symbolic of his position in his community where he alone has authority. At the same time he has inherited the problems that come with the position.