Sculpture Staff AAA1449

The Mvwala staff, a symbol of authority in the Congo

The Staff sculpture AAA1449 offered by Versmissen is a Mvwala figurative staff from the Yombe tradition of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These staffs were among the principal symbols of authority in the Congo. They served both as a channel of communication and as a sign of legitimacy, establishing a link between the ancestors and the living. This wooden example dates from the 20th century.

The iconography of this staff reflects the principles of Congolese chieftaincy and particularly highlights the central role of women. Presented as a unique piece, the sculpture bears witness to the cultural and symbolic heritage of the Yombe. Its slender, vertical format reflects its nature as a figurative staff. It measures 5 x 5,5 x 32 cm, proportions that allow the sculpted representation and its arrangement along the full height to be appreciated.

Iconography associated with Congolese chieftaincy

• Yombe Mvwala figurative staff
• Symbol of authority and legitimacy
• Unique 20th-century wooden piece
• Originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dimensions: 5 x 5,5 x 32 cm