Sculpture Staff AAA1449

The figurative Mvwala sticks, preeminent symbols of authority in Congo, functioned as a “communication channel and a symbol of legitimacy” linking ancestors to the living. This natural wood sculpture, from the Yombe tribe in the Democratic Republic of Congo and dating from the 20th century, measures 5x5.5x32 cm. The iconography of this stick reflects the principles of Congolese chiefdom, highlighting the central role of women. An exceptional artifact, this unique piece testifies to the profound cultural and symbolic heritage of the Yombe.