Mangbetu Elephant Head Sculpture - 234.2 Diorama and representations of animals

and representations of animals

near-obsidian patina

They use dried feathers they put together in sewing them

earthy tones and intricate patterns reflect a deep connection to natural beauty

Whether used as a low table

Mangbetu Elephant Head Sculpture - 234.2 Diorama and representations of animalsA Mangbetu elephant head sculpture from the northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, hand modelled in burnished terracotta with a deep, near obsidian patina. Across Central Africa the elephant stands for the king or chief the pillar of the community, strong and enduring. Here the form is pared back to sweeping, almost architectural curves, the trunk and fan like ears finely incised against the smooth, polished head. Size: H 23cm W 32cm D 18cm.