Multi-headed and multi-faced figures occur infrequently amongst the Lega, in eastern Congo.
The present female figure is carved from lightweight, light-coloured wood, dyed dark brown, and bears two typical Lega heads on top of one another. With characteristic concave heart-shaped faces bulging towards the centre, featuring slit coffee bean eyes, long flat nose and a small mouth. Both faces bear the remains of a white kaolin coating. The heads sit atop a short body with short bowed legs, and proportionally large feet. The female genitals, which are emphasised, imply that this is probably a representation of a hunting goddess.
The aim of this multi-headed representation is to provide the hunter with a visual instruction to keep alert: a good hunter needs to see everything. Even from a great height he should be able to spot an elephant on the opposite bank of a river. This is the meaning of the second, upper head.
This ‘hunting amulet’ made of wood only has a few small, old, pieces broken off on the reverse (earlier insect damage?). Otherwise no damage. In addition, there is a good shiny patina and some scuffing of the colour on exposed areas and edges as a result of long-term use of this rare piece. There is a collection inventory number, in white letters, on the left foot at the outside.
Height: 18 cm; width: 5.5 cm. First half of the 20th century. (ME)

Provenance: South African private collection.

Lit.: ‘L’art des Lega’, catalogue of the Musée du Quai Branly Paris, ill. 3, 11,12, 131, 132, 133, 134; ‘The Tribal Art of Africa’ by Jean-Baptiste Bacquart, p. 150, ill. A.