Yaka fetish, Democratic Republic of the Congo - Lot 160

Yaka fetish, Democratic Republic of the Congo Wood with black patina, fabric, upholstery nails, fur, composite materials H. 22.5 cm Provenance : - Etude Blanchet et associés, September 21, 2004, reproduced under lot 196 - Former John Dintenfass collection, New York The swaddled top bust reveals only schematic feet. The large face opens onto a gaze dotted with upholsterer's nails in deep sockets, the nose arched according to the canons of the style. Great aficionados of African art, Nicole and John Dintenfas have brought together a group of small-scale works, like this one, which they consider to have great aesthetic power. Cf. Conversations intimes - Miniatures africaines, Editions 5 Continents, Milan, 2017