Yaka (Bayaka), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Mbwoolo protective figure. Yaka means  “the strong ones," “ba” means people, thus Bayaka mean ”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, and their art is very much alive today. This figure represents one of the Yaka tribe’s most widespread sculptural categories. Typical are the hands touching the head, squatting posture, and protruding ears. Its function is to protect people from illness or harm. The Yaka still use a considerable number of protective statuettes.

Material:  wood

Size:  H. 22”, W. 6”, D. 6 ½”

Price:  $190 + $35 (S&H)                                 [#K0Y9S268]