Democratic Republic of Congo
Mangbetu

Wood, bamboo, rattan
Mid 20th Century
Height: 21.25 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 four (4) bamboo tines (keys) secured on a resonating wood carved body by rattan.  There are scarification marks of identity on his face.  It serves both as a significant sculpture in both religious and secular ceremonial functions, including rituals and storytelling.  In this region, artistic design that shows raised arms possibly represents one who, by his arbitration, settled conflicts.