This 40"×8" Kouyou statue is an authentic representation of the art from the Kouyou (Kuyu) ethnic group, a Bantu community living along the Congo River in northern Republic of the Congo. A subgroup of the Mbochi people, the Kouyou have a rich tradition of woodcarving and music, with a patrilineal clan structure divided historically into panther and snake totemic clans. Their cultural practices include the secret male society Ottoté, influential in leadership selection. Kouyou art features ritual wooden figures like the Okue and ceremonial clubs called Kebe-Kebe, embodying deep spiritual and social significance.
