Colonial Figure

Kongo Kingdom, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Late 19th century

Wood, Pigments

25.5cm Tall

Provenance:

Marc Leo Felix, Belgium

Pierre Loos, Belgium

Robert van der Heijden, Netherlands

The Kongo kingdom, which ruled the delta of the Congo river from roughly 1400 to 1914, was one of the first ethnic groups contacted by Europeans, particularly Portugal and then later Belgium. This early contact with western forces quickly influenced the art of the Kongo, resulting in many early carved figures representing non-African figures. The present example depicts a figure with pale skin and fancy European dress, with a carved collar and painted accents. Behind the figure is what appears to be the backrest of a European chair, further suggesting this work represents someone of Western origin and high status. Bright pigments and mostly unblemished surface suggest that the figure had no ritual significance, but rather was made during the 19th century for someone who traveled the region. Whether a portrait commissioned by a traveler or generalized depiction, this work is certainly very interesting for any collectors who appreciate the art made in the transitional, transactional period during initial contact with the West.