Bongotols, highly valued valuables, were offered to deceased nobles in the Kuba kingdom during funerals to support the corpse or display their status and wealth. They were then stashed until the next burial, continuing cycles of gift and counter gift among the titled Kuba aristocracy. Their rich iconography offers a kaleidoscope of traditional Kuba sociality, cosmology, and ritual.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2024
Publisher: Sidestone Press

During funerals of nobles in the Kuba kingdom (Democratic Republic of Congo), visitors used to theatrically offer so-called bongotols to the deceased and the mourning family. These highly appreciated valuables were either positioned under the corpse to support it or displayed on top of it. In addition to their religious meaning, they displayed the status and wealth of both givers and takers. Visitors would receive similar items in return. Afterwards, the bongotols were stashed until, on occasion of a next burial, they would continue their cycles of gift and counter gift among the titled Kuba aristocracy. Death and display brings ethnographic research and archival sources to bear on these intriguing heirlooms. Their rich iconography offers a kaleidoscope of traditional Kuba sociality, cosmology, and ritual.

Bongotols: A Cultural Legacy of the Kuba Kingdom

The Kuba kingdom, located in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is known for its unique funerary practices and the bongotols, which were offered to the deceased and the mourning family during funerals. These highly appreciated valuables were either positioned under the corpse to support it or displayed on top of it. They not only had religious significance but also served as a display of the status and wealth of both givers and takers. Visitors would receive similar items in return, and the bongotols were stashed until the next burial, where they would continue their cycles of gift and counter gift among the titled Kuba aristocracy.

The Meaning of Bongotols

Bongotols are intricately carved wooden figures that represent various aspects of Kuba culture. They can be shaped like animals, humans, or abstract forms and are often decorated with intricate patterns and colors. The meaning of bongotols varies depending on the specific figure and its context. Some bongotols are believed to have spiritual powers, while others are used to symbolize social status or wealth.

The Role of Bongotols in Funerals

During funerals, bongotols are placed under the corpse to support it and to provide comfort to the mourning family. They are also displayed on top of the corpse to show respect and honor. The placement of bongotols can vary depending on the social status of the deceased and the family. For example, a high-ranking noble may have several bongotols placed under his corpse, while a lower-ranking individual may have only one or two.

The Iconography of Bongotols

Bongotols are rich in iconography, which reflects the Kuba culture's beliefs and values. Some of the most common symbols include animals, such as lions, elephants, and buffalo, which are associated with power and strength. Other symbols include plants, such as maize, which is a staple food in the Kuba kingdom, and trees, which are believed to have spiritual significance.

The Significance of Bongotols in Kuba Society

Bongotols play a significant role in Kuba society. They are used to mark important events, such as births, marriages, and deaths. They are also used to communicate messages and to express emotions. Bongotols are often passed down from generation to generation and are considered to be valuable heirlooms.

The Preservation of Bongotols

Bongotols are fragile and can easily be damaged if not handled properly. To preserve them, they are often stored in museums and other cultural institutions. However, some bongotols are still used in funerals and other ceremonies.

Conclusion

Bongotols are a unique and fascinating cultural legacy of the Kuba kingdom. They are intricately carved wooden figures that represent various aspects of Kuba culture and are used to support the deceased and the mourning family during funerals. They are rich in iconography and play a significant role in Kuba society. Despite their fragility, bongotols are still preserved and used in funerals and other ceremonies.

Dimension: 280 x 210 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789464262124