Yaka (Bayaka), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Mbwoolo protective figure. Yaka means  “the strong ones," “ba” means people, thus Bayaka means ”the strong people.” Settled along the length of the middle Kwango River, in the southwest of the country, they number about 300,000.  The men traditionally practiced hunting, while the women cultivated manioc, yams, peas, pineapples and peanuts. They practice initiation and circumcision. Highly artistic people, the Yaka give an aesthetic touch to many everyday objects such as combs, pipes, musical instruments. The figure represents one of the Yaka tribe’s most widespread sculptural categories. Typical are the hands touching the chin, squatting posture, upturned nose, and protruding ears. Its function is to protect people against evils.

Material:  wood

Size:  H. 23”, W. 6”, D. 6”

Price: $195 + $40 (S&H)                                                       [#K3Y9S817]