
A very large African art ancestor figure from the Kela/yela ethnic group, located near the Ituri forest, in eastern DR Congo .
Just like their neighbours the Metoko, the Yela and Kela groups have known a Lilwa-type of organization. These abstract representations/figures- mostly males- are depicted, just like among the Metoko, in a cubistic style. Red and white planes are nicely set off against each other. The heart-shaped face, elongated features and geometric angular forms are characteristic of carving styles of the Equatorial Forest.
A simple but very strong piece of art likely predating the cubist movement in Europe.