Product Description
Hand-carved Hair Comb, Songye – Congo
This beautiful comb originates from the Songye peoples – the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Antique combs were used for styling the hair and were sometimes worn as decorative items when inserted and worn in both men’s and women’s hair. Elaborate and distinctive coiffures reveal social status, and hair combs were considered a luxury and many become treasured items that are passed down through the generations.
Made of 100% Wood.
Model is W 28 – H 9 and weight 0.2 kg
Description
This beautiful comb originates from the Songye peoples – the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Antique combs were used for styling the hair and were sometimes worn as decorative items when inserted and worn in both men’s and women’s hair. Elaborate and distinctive coiffures reveal social status, and hair combs were considered a luxury and many become treasured items that are passed down through the generations.
The Songye created a sculptural style of intense dynamism and vitality. The works of Songye craftsmen are often used within the secret societies during various ceremonies. The figures are used to ensure their success, fertility, and wealth and to protect people against hostile forces as lightning, as well as against diseases such as smallpox, very common in that region. Small figures were kept and consulted by individuals, larger ones were responsible for ensuring the welfare of an entire community.
During the 16th century, the Songye migrated from the Shaba area, which is now the southern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Their history is closely linked to the Luba’s, to whom the Songye are related through common ancestors. Having waged war against one another for a long time, the Songye and Luba later formed an alliance to fight the Arabs. They settled on the left bank of the Lualaba River, on a savanna and forest-covered plateau. Divided into many subgroups, the 150,000 Songye people are governed by a central chief assisted by innumerable secret societies.
Additional information
Weight | 0.2 kg |
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Dimensions | 9 × 28 cm |
Color | |
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