• A close-up, frontal view of a dark, wooden Tabwa Mpundu doll. The figure has a distinctive head with detailed carving, including hair and facial features. A small beaded necklace, with yellow and black beads, sits at the base of its neck. The torso is bulbous and rounded, with carved tribal patterns and two protruding points on the chest.
  • A close-up profile of the tabwa doll's head and shoulders. This angle highlights the elongated, stylized face and the small beaded necklace.
  • A full-body frontal view of the Tabwa Mpundu doll, showing its carved head, beaded necklace, and the textured torso with geometric patterns.
  • A full-body profile of the tabwa doll. This view reveals the depth of the carving on the torso and the overall shape of the figure.
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Tribal Art & Antiques

Tabwa Mpundu Doll with Beaded Necklace (DRC)

£220.00 GBP
£220.00 GBP
Sale Sold out
Tax included.

A beautifully carved wooden Tabwa doll with all feminine attributes (breasts and protruding navel) and scarifications. The wood is undyed. The beautiful head bears a hairstyle made of rhombus shapes. The cylindric body of the doll beras  lines of decorative scarifications. These dolls, often referred to as "mpundu," hold significant cultural and spiritual importance within the Tabwa community.   

Symbolic significance: They are believed to represent ancestors, twins, or fertility.

Use in rituals: Tabwa dolls were used in various rituals and ceremonies, including those related to fertility, childbirth, and the protection of children.

Date: 20th Century
Origin: Tabwa
Country: South East DRC
Material: Wood
Height: 20.5 cm
Width: 7.5 cm
Provenance:

Provenance: Personal Collection, France

Condition

Expected surface wear with scuffs, chips, abrasions commensurate with age and use. Cracks visible. The wood has developed a warm patina resulting from age and use.

Materials

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Dimensions

Care Instructions