Kongo-Vili Kneeling Power Figure, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Joseph Henrion (1936-1983), Brussels
By descent through the family
Marc Leo Felix, Brussels, acquired from the above
Helmut Stern, Ann Arbor, acquired from the above
Robert and Lillian Bohlen, Brighton, acquired from the above
Sotheby's, New York, May 16, 2008, lot 134, consigned by the above
Myron Kunin, Minneapolis, acquired at the above auction

The African-American Institute, Purchase, Masterpieces of the People's Republic of the Congo, September 25, 1980 - January 24, 1981
Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minneapolis, Spirits Embodied:  Art of the Congo. Selections from the Helmut F. Stern Collection, October 1, 1999 - July 2, 2000
Hamline University Art Galleries, St. Paul, Icons of Perfection: Figurative Sculpture from Africa, December 2, 2005 - February 11, 2006

The African-American Institute (ed.), Masterpieces of the People's Republic of the Congo, Purchase, 1980, p. 26, fig. 21
Raoul Lehuard, Art Bakongo: les centres de style, Arnouville, 1989, Vol. II, p. 557, fig. K 1-3-1
Evan M. Maurer and Niangi Batulukisi, Spirits Embodied: Art of the Congo. Selections from the Helmut F. Stern Collection, Minneapolis, 1999, pp. 64 and 74, fig. 6
Frank Herreman, Icons of Perfection: Figurative Sculpture from Africa, Saint Paul, 2006, p. 37, cat. 20

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Minor marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, wear, and small chips consistent with age and use. Textile and fiber attachments are dry and fragile with some fraying. Exceptionally fine glossy dark brown patina with encrustation.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

At merely four and a half inches height distinguished by its great sculptural power, the Kunin Vili statuette is one of the great masterpieces of monumental miniature sculpture.

Discussing the present figure, Batulukisi (Maurer and Batulukisi 1999: 74) notes: "This kneeling female figure is a classic example of a magico-religious artifact that would have been used in healing and fertility rituals.  Other objects of this size are worn as amulets and serve as charms of protection.  It is a dynamic figure and appears very powerful with its large shoulders and defined torso.  Its chest and back bear scarifications in the form of cowry shells carved in high relief, and bracelets are carved in relief on both upper arms.  The figure is wearing a split cane collar and a little woven raffia outfit."