Songye statuette

Masculine Figure
Early 20th century, Songye, Democratic Republic of the Congo
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 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).