Tribal Art

Stringed instrument whose sound box is extended by a handle with a pattern sculpted in the round. The motif refers to the protective fetish of the Songye, here in the form of an exuberant artistically produced subject. Satin black brown patina.
In the 16th century, the Songyes migrated from the Shaba region to settle on the left bank of the Lualaba. Their society is organized in a patriarchal way. Their history is inseparable from that of the Luba to which they are related through common ancestors.
The Songyes created impressive statues with powerful features are often used during secret ceremonies, covered with accessories like feathers, skin and a horn full of magical charge.
Very present in their society, divination made it possible to discover sorcerers and to shed light on the causes of the misfortunes that struck individuals.