Toni Malau (St. Anthony) late 18th-early 19th century

sculpture, ivory

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This ivory sculpture, "Toni Malau (St. Anthony)," from the late 18th to early 19th century, is a testament to the artistic skill of Kongo artists. The piece depicts St. Anthony, a popular figure in Catholic Christianity, holding a small figure of the Christ Child. The detailed carving showcases the traditional techniques of Kongo ivory sculpture, with a focus on realism and expressiveness. The sculpture's size and intricate details suggest it was likely a devotional object, meant to be venerated and held close. This work exemplifies the dynamic interplay of Christian iconography and Kongo artistic traditions.

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minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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This centuries-old African representation of Saint Anthony of Padua is a good example of syncretism. Syncretism is the combination of different, seemingly contradictory belief systems. Known as Toni Malau among the Kongo people, “Anthony of Prosperity” is shown here wearing a European monk’s clothing, belt, and sandals. Yet over his shoulders he wears a netted cape, a raffia garment reserved for Kongo nobility, and parts of the Child’s arms and Toni Malau’s left hand have gradually been scraped off as believers took bits of ivory for healing or protection. Drawing its form and power from both traditions, Toni Malau embodies the rich exchange between Kongo and Christian religious thought and imagery, which developed before forced conversion under colonialism.