Male and Female Figures
Metoko Artist, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Details
Title
Male and Female Figures
Artist/Maker
Metoko Artist, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Nineteenth century
Medium
Wood
Dimensions
16.25 inches
Credit
Fred and Rita Richman Collection
Accession #
2002.308.1-2
On View
Currently not on view
In Metoko societies, paired male and female figures representing husband and wife were used in initiation rites to confer the status of kasimbi, one of the highest ranks within the association called Bukota, whose membership included both men and women. The paired figures provided behavioral models, encouraged healing, and promoted peace. The Richmans have made couples—an important subject in African art—a special theme in their collecting. These sculptures represent idealized images of men and women who bear the potential to give birth to future generations. Without children, one does not become an ancestor.
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