songye male figure, DRC

Male Figure
Early 20th century, Songye, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Ivory
Height: 10.7 cm

This ivory sculpture depicts a masculine figure with a stocky body and stylized forms. Its frontal and hieratic posture gives it a strong presence. The face is characterized by a prominent prognathous jaw, almond-shaped eyes, and a mouth shaped like a “figure 8.” The belly is slightly protruding, and the arms are drawn toward the abdomen — a posture that is quite typical in Songye statuary.

Songye ivories are extremely rare on the market. The style of this piece can be compared to an object housed in Tervuren (EO.1956.57.59).