HANDMADE AFRICAN FURNISHINGS & COWHIDE RUGS

African Furnishings for Royal Interiors

In the heart of Africa lies a treasure trove of ceremonial objects that embody the rich cultural heritage and spiritual practices of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These remarkable artifacts, ranging from exquisite masks to intricately carved sculptures, are not only visually captivating but also hold profound significance as objects of power and transformation. Today, discerning collectors have the unique opportunity to bring these revered pieces into their own spaces, allowing the echoes of history and spirituality to resonate within their walls.

MCCL, a renowned international curator dedicated to promoting and preserving indigenous art, works closely with talented artists and tailors from the Congo and Rwanda. Their collaboration allows for the commissioning and acquisition of an impressive array of ceremonial objects, including fine art paintings, traditional basketry, wooden sculptures, furnishings, and made-to-order embroidered garments. The collective efforts of MCCL and these skilled artisans ensure that each piece is found or crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting both the traditional techniques and the evolving creative expressions of the region.

Among the notable offerings are engraved hardwood doors, walking sticks adorned with symbolic motifs, treasure chests that carry the stories of generations, and zoomorphic animal totems that blur the boundaries between human and nature. These items not only serve as stunning decorative elements but also serve as a tangible link to a shared cultural identity. They bear the marks of historical actions, evoking the traditions of hunting and war through ornamental shields, weapons, and tools. Incorporating such ceremonial regalia into interior design adds a powerful dimension to any space, transforming it into a living testament to the rituals and customs of the past.

At the core of these ceremonial objects are the fetishes, which hold immense significance in various rites of passage, religious rituals, initiations, ritual dances, and celebrations. These fetishes, carefully crafted with an intricate blend of spiritual symbolism and artistic expression, embody the very essence of East African cultural and religious practices. From their intricate carvings to the materials used, each fetish tells a unique story and carries the energy of its purpose. They are objects of power, conduits through which individuals can connect with the spiritual realm and harness its transformative energies.

For the discerning collector, the availability of these ceremonial objects is a rare opportunity to not only appreciate their beauty but also to delve into the cultural narratives and ancient wisdom they embody. The acquisition of such pieces allows one to participate in the preservation and celebration of Africa’s rich heritage while creating a space that is infused with the mystical essence of these extraordinary cultures.

As we embrace the wonders of the modern world, it is essential not to overlook the profound value of ancient traditions and the objects that represent them. The ceremonial masks, sculptures, fetishes, and regalia are more than mere decorative items—they are gateways to a realm where art, spirituality, and history intertwine. By inviting these objects into our lives, we forge a connection with a powerful past and gain a deeper understanding of the forces that shape our present.

In the hands of discerning collectors, these ceremonial objects become vessels of knowledge, sources of inspiration, and anchors of cultural heritage. They serve as reminders of the importance of preserving the diverse tapestry of human traditions and remind us that even in our increasingly interconnected world, there is immense beauty and wisdom to be found in the rituals and objects of the past.

Though primarily sourced in southwestern DRC and the Congo Basin, MCCL provides handcrafted works from the Bayaka, Bakuba, Baluba, Bateke, Bapende, Yoruba, Igbo and Warega peoples. Congolese headdresses, masks, textiles, sculptures, statues, metalwork, and woodwork carvings embody the essentials of East African divination and ancestor worship.