KUBA, Democratic Republic of Congo. Hardwood, dark brown patina. This "Ndop" portrait sculpture was carved after the death of a "Nyim" king as a sign of authority and to link the monarch to his dynasty. The Nyim is depicted seated cross-legged on a square base, adorned in all his finery and decorated with the symbols of royalty: royal garments including the "laket mishiing" headdress, the calm expression befitting royal composure, the "Ibol" symbol associated with his reign, in this case a bird, and the cauri shells symbolising the "Woot", the mythical founder of the kingdom of Kuba. H. 42 cm. (wear).