TS_Art of Africa_4C.qxp 10/17/2011 3:53 PM Page 233
Fetish statue (Songye).
Wood, skin, beads, horn, seashells, and metal,
height: 109 cm.
J. Van der Straete, Belgium.The Songye charm statues receive their power
from the magical substances inserted in their
abdomen and head. Moreover, accessories such
as hair, seashells, leopard or snake skins increase
this power. They confer the characteristics of the
animal they come from to the statue.