Overview:
The Kota people, based in eastern Gabon and parts of northern Congo, are best known for their stunning reliquary figures known as mbulu-ngulu, which are adorned with copper or brass. These artworks serve both spiritual and protective functions, guarding the ancestral remains of the dead.
Spirituality and Symbolism:
Among the Kota, ancestor worship is central. Reliquary statues are mounted on baskets holding sacred bones. These figures represent spiritual guardianship, providing protection and guidance to the living community.
Aesthetics and Style:
Kota art is instantly recognizable through its heart-shaped faces, abstract forms, and metal plating that reflects light and power. The minimalist geometry of these pieces combines visual impact with deep symbolic meaning.
Cultural Significance:
More than ritual objects, Kota reliquaries are vessels of collective memory, reflecting the Kota’s deep respect for ancestry and their sophisticated sculptural heritage.
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