Museum Explorer
Death in Africa
Remembrance carving
From: the Democratic Republic of Congo
(Kuba-Bushoong)
Date: probably late 18th century
This carving shows the spirit of King Shyaam-a-Mbul Ngoong. Carvings like this were called ndop and were made for worshipping the king after he had died. Other kings were also remembered in this way. King Shyaam has a calm face and a mancala board at his feet.
The ndop were kept in a special room in the king's palace with other sculptures, all of which protected his magical powers. When the king was away, the sculptures were rubbed with oil to keep his kingship strong.
