Lot 612

A large Bangwa "Lefem" royal figure with regalia. H 121 cm "Figures such as these have as their primary reference point the human world, not the supernatural world. Because of their important status, memorial figures are honoured and well cared for while being housed in a secure place within the king's palace. This work was assembled with other portrait figures from previous generations, including representations of other chiefs, as well as queen mothers, princesses, titled brothers, and favourite wives. The assembly served as a concentrated symbol of dynastic power and continuity, a visual record of family history that inspired deference and obedience. During the ceremonies that surround a chief's funeral and the installation of his successor, his lefem is exhibited publicly, again as a means to maintain social and political continuity as well as to encourage faith in the strength of royal ancestral power." Metropolitan Swiss collection