Songye Power Figure, Democratic Republic of the Congo

James M. Silberman, Washington, D.C., acquired in Kinshasa in the mid-1960s
Thence by family descent
Sotheby's, New York, May 16, 2008, lot 150, consigned by the above
Private Collection, acquired at the above auction

Very good condition for an object of this age and type, with well-preserved remains of original attachments. Chip to proper right side of tip of nose. Marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, cracks, and small chips and losses throughout consistent with age and use. Fine crusty layered patina of ritually-applied material. Metal tarnished and with verdigris. Fibers and feathers are frayed and fragile.
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.

The rare style of the present lot testifies to the interrelations existing between the Songye and neighboring peoples such as the Luba, Kanyok, and Luluwa, among others. See Neyt, Songye, 2004, pp. 318-320, for further discussion.

The present figure can be attributed to a Luba-Kasai workshop known for combining Songye iconography with Luba and Luluwa stylistic elements, evident here in the coiffure, which terminates in a circular bonnet, and in the double herringbone eyebrows. For a related Songye figure see ibid., p. 115, fig. 80.