Rubbing Oracle
Kuba
Description
Subject Matter:
Small statuettes or rubbing oracles, called Itombwa or Itoom, were typically used by diviners to communicate with nature spirits or Ngesh. A small piece of wood was rubbed on the flat back of the statuette while questions were asked. Rubbing oracles were used to protect the community and resolve disputes. This particular oracle is in the shape of a crocodile, which is said to be an incarnation of Ngesh.
References:
Daniel Biebuyck, The Arts of Zaire, 1985
Roy Sieber, African Textiles and Decorative Arts, 1972
Jan Vansina, The Children of Woot, 1978
Physical Description:
Horizontally positioned statue in the shape of a crocodile. The back of the statue is flattened with a slight concave in the middle. The body contains carved linear designs and the tail has a rectangular shape.
Usage Rights:
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