 
Fetishes 24-25 |
Collar 1 |
 BATEKE/TSAYE Mask 18 SOLD |
Flywhisks 1-3, SOLD
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  Fetishes SOLD |
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.
These flat, round, abstracted masks are enhanced with symbols of Tsaye beliefs. Used in rituals of Kidumu, the male association, the masks express their social and religious values.
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