 Kuba people, Democratic Republic of the Congo Divination Implement/Friction Oracle (itumbwa), 20th century carved wood, braided sennit, brass bosses and wire (13040.1) Gift of the Rogers Family Foundation, 2004 The itumbwa or friction oracle was an implement used by a Kuba shaman for the
telling of fortunes and consultation of spirits. Like this example, many are short-legged
quadruped animals with long backs, elongated necks, pointed heads and short tails.
The flanks of the animal in HMA’s itumbwa are decorated with cross-hatching which
indicates it could represent a crocodile, albeit stylized. The back of the animal is
polished and smooth, reflecting its use. The small wooden piece attached with fiber
cord was moistened with oil and rubbed back and forth, its movements and whether or
not (or where) it would stick interpreted by the shaman as the answers to questions
being asked at the time. |