Artwork Page for Divination Implement

Details / Information for Divination Implement

Divination Implement

late 1800s–early 1900s

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Luba-style maker

Medium
Wood, glass beads, and natural fiber
Measurements
Overall: 11.4 x 3.4 x 4.8 cm (4 1/2 x 1 5/16 x 1 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
René and Odette Delenne Collection, Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund 2010.455
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

This divination implement is a kakishi (embodiment of an ancestor) device that connects the diviner and the client to the spirit they wish to contact.

Description

This device helped contact an ancestral spirit who clarified misfortunes. The diviner awakened the ancestor by anointing the rectangular frame of the figurine with pungent basil leaves. Sitting on a textured woven mat, the diviner held one side of the instrument while the client held the other. The diviner then posed questions to the ancestor who responded through certain movement signaling affirmation.
A dark brown wood sculpture features a polished, vertical figure with deep red undertones. A pointed head with carved linear hair patterns sits atop a neck circled by dark blue and white glass beads. The torso is a hollow, rectangular frame resting on a solid, flat base. Facing right, the figure's jutting profile and recessed, diamond-shaped eye overlook the square void of its own body.

Divination Implement

late 1800s–early 1900s

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Luba-style maker

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