Description
One of two Christian-inspired objects in the Delenne collection identifying the far-reaching networks of trade, diplomacy, religion, and cross-cultural exchange. Kongo Christian symbols were created as spiritual tools to help explain and alleviate the turbulent situation between Central African religion and Catholicism. This figurine is geometric in style, combining both Christian ideals and preexisting Kongo artistic practices. Its pierced hands and feet link him to crucifixion images.
Provenance
Charles Ralet, Brussels, BE, 1945, sold to Jef and René Vanderstraete (?-1945); Jef and René Vanderstraete, Lasne, BE, 1959, sold to René and Odette Delenne (1945-1959); René [1901-1998] and Odette Delenne [1925-2012], Brussels, BE, 2010, sold to the Cleveland Museum of Art (1959-2010); The Cleveland Museum of Art, Cleveland, OH, 2010 (2010)
Accession Number
2010.445
Medium
Copper alloy
Dimensions
Overall: 16.5 x 12.5 x 2.5 cm (6 1/2 x 4 15/16 x 1 in.)
Classification
Sculpture
Credit Line
René and Odette Delenne Collection, Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund