BATEKE FETISH FIGURES ARCHIVES, DRC
Authentic Bateke fetishes are rare. Despite their appearance, the fetishes below show no evidence
of age or use and were probably made to be sold.
The figures below have been sold and are left here for reference
and educational purposes.
For UNSOLD Bateke Fetish Figures,
GO TO BATEKE FETISH FIGURES PAGE
GO TO BATEKE STYLE FETISH FIGURES PAGE
Photographs © Hamill
Gallery
BATEKE STYLE, FETISH FIGURES ARCHIVES, DRC
Fetishes were protective figures used by individuals, families, or whole
communities. They were used 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.
These small figures were individually owned and served to protect, assist
or heal. Facial scarification patterns are identical to those of Bateke
men. The figures 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. Each figure has its own specific purpose,
known only to its owner. If a fetish successfully demonstrates its power,
its owner may detach Bonga, break it into several pieces and insert
fragments into other figures. He will then sell new figures to neighboring
families, leaving the original statue with an emaciated body. The statues
with Bonga are called Butti; without Bonga they are
called Tege.
GO TO BATEKE FETISH FIGURES PAGE
GO TO BATEKE
STYLE FETISH FIGURES PAGE
GO TO BATEKE ART PAGE
GO TO FETISH! EXHIBITION
PAGE
GO TO AFRICAN FETISHES
PAGE
GO TO FETISHES
(MISCELLANEOUS) PAGE
GO TO AFRICAN FIGURES PAGE
