Lot 254: A fine and rare pare of Pende or Wongo figures

Pende or Wongo, D.R. Congo; H: 14", 12 1/2"

Each sitting Indian style, with rounded coifs, high foreheads and thin eyes, the faces with flat planar surfaces; the male with hands to thighs, the female holding an infant above her lap. Fine blackened mottled patina with encrustation over the deep red/brown surface. Each on a custom base.

Comments:
Dr. Arthur P. Bourgeois, Expert on the Kwilu-Kwango saw this lot in early October 2013 in person and remarked that thought the figures appear to be Pende, the flattened treatment of the faces and raised keloids at the temples may lead to a further Eastern attribution, such as the Wongo.

Provenance:
Ex. Private Virginia Collection

Price Realized: $4,750

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