Democratic Republic of Congo
Mangbetu

Wood, beads, bamboo, rattan
Mid 20th Century
Height: 28 in, Width: 7.875 in, Depth: 9.125 in
Idiophone – Plucked – Lamellophone

The Mangbetu are a Central Sudanic ethnic group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, living in the northeastern province of Haut-Uele. They are known for their highly developed art and music.  This anthropomorphic-shaped sanze has eight (8) bamboo tines (keys) secured on a resonating box by rattan.  It serves both as a significant sculpture in both religious and secular ceremonial functions, including rituals and storytelling. The sanza is ornamented with beads and small shells around the neck.  In African artwork in this region, anthropomorphic figures without arms sometimes indicates laziness and sexual laxity and is a reminder for the need of higher morals.