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Photographs © Tim Hamill
BATEKE, FETISH FIGURES 1, Dem. Rep. Congo
Fetishes were protective figures used by individuals, families, or whole communities to destroy or weaken evil spirits, prevent or cure illnesses, repel bad deeds, solemnize contracts or oath-taking, and decide arguments. A diviner or holy person would activate the statue, using magical substances. Fetishes gained power and were effective because people believed in them.
Small Butti figures were individually owned and served to protect or heal. Facial scarification patterns are identical to those of Bateke men. The figures would gain special power by the addition of organic material (Bonga), placed in a cavity in the body or encased in a clay or cloth mantle enclosing most of the body. Many have extra natural objects attached to the figure for an increase in power.
Many of these Bateke fetishes, despite their appearance, show no evidence of age or use and were probably made to be sold.
GO TO BATEKE FETISH FIGURES 1 (1-15) PAGE
GO TO BATEKE FETISH FIGURES 2 (16-28) PAGE
GO TO FETISHES (VARIOUS TRIBES) PAGE
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