YAKA STYLE FETISH FIGURES 1 (1-20), DRC

Authentic Yaka fetishes are rare.  Despite their appearance, these Yaka figures show no evidence of age or use and were probably made to be sold.

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YAKA STYLE Fetish 1 42" high $1200

YAKA STYLE Fetish 3 33" high $700

YAKA STYLE Fetish 4 32" high $600

YAKA STYLE Fetish 5 33.5" high $700

YAKA STYLE Fetish 6 30" high $500

YAKA STYLE Fetish 7 27.5" high $400

YAKA STYLE Fetish 8 28.5" high $700

YAKA STYLE Fetish 10 26.5" high $700

YAKA STYLE Fetish 11 27" high $600

YAKA STYLE Fetish 12 25" high $800

YAKA STYLE Fetish 13 24.5" high $400

YAKA STYLE Fetish 14 25" high $500

YAKA STYLE Fetish 15 23.5" high $500

YAKA STYLE Fetish 16 24" high $500

YAKA STYLE Fetish 18 22" high $500

YAKA STYLE Fetish 19 21.5" high $500

YAKA STYLE Fetish 20 22.5" high $400

Fetishes were protective figures used by individuals, families, or whole communities to destroy or weaken evil spirits, prevent or cure illnesses, repel bad deeds, solemnize contracts or oath-taking, and decide arguments. A diviner or holy person would activate the statue using magical substances. Fetishes gained power and were effective because people believed in them.

Yaka fetishes known as Biteki support sacred substances containing life force. These materials, together with the figure, assist the prayers and supplications of their owners for protection of harm, sickness or loss. Distinctive facial features of Yaka sculpture include the bisected eyes and upturned noses that are typical of their masks as well.