Wood, Metal/Copper, Cowries, Paint, Fiber Strings

Harp

Rega Harp

Democratic Republic of Congo
Rega

Wood, Metal/Copper, Cowries, Paint, Fiber Strings
1920's-1950's

Height: 73 cm. (28,74 in.); Lenght/Depth: 36 cm. (14,17 in.); Width: 21 cm. (8,27 in.)
Chordophone - Harp - Plucked

Handcarved from brown patinated wood, in form of a figure with body and face painted colorful, the eyes are formed by cowries. The instruments is fully functional. Usage traces and drying cracks. This Rega Harp comes from the Congolese Tribe found in the Kive Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rega, also known as Lega, artwork is based upon the traditions and context of the Bwami society, a political organization. It supports a system that determines one’s status and power by movement through numerous hierarchical stages, each demanding high payment. The Rega people believe membership in the Bwani Society can protect one from evil doings of most witches. Those who reach the highest rank called “Kindi,” have the power to communicate with ancestors using powerful supernatural medicines and objects, such as this Rega harp.

Owner:
Catalog#: AF-CHHP-37-53

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