Kongo-Yombe Maternity Figure Phemba figure Abrasion and minor pitting

Abrasion and minor pitting

and radiating incised lines and symbols that may hold cultural or spiritual significance

Yaëlle Biro

Hole on the side

provide insight into the interconnected cultures of Amri-Nal

Kongo-Yombe Maternity Figure Phemba figure Abrasion and minor pittingKongo peoples, Yombe subgroup, early to mid. 20th century, Mayombe region, Democratic Republic of the Congo. This exceptional and rare wooden maternity figure, known as phemba (or pfemba), is a powerful embodiment of Kongo Yombe ideals of feminine beauty and spiritual significance. Carved with exquisite detail, the figure depicts a seated mother cradling a child, her legs crossed atop a small base. She tenderly supports the child's head with her right