Amulet Figure: Female Ancestor

Date20th century

Label TextHippopotamus teeth and wart hog tusks underline the gentle curving shape of female figures on these pendants. Their heads incline, as if reflecting on the past. Such pendants evoke the memory of a deceased relative whose character is considered protection for the wearer. Suspended on a belt or on the arm, the faces of the figures have become worn and softened.

Object number68.239

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, A Bead Quiz, July 1, 2008 - July 1, 2009,Published ReferencesFelix, Marc Leo. White Gold, Black Hands: Ivory Sculpture in Congo, vol. 5, (Qiquhar, Heilungkiang, China: Gemini Sun, 2013), fig. A3, p. 12 (color).

Credit LineNasli and Alice Heeramaneck Collection

Dimensions4 1/16 x 15/16 x 1 3/8 in. (10.32 x 2.38 x 3.49 cm)

MediumIvory and shell