An important Nkama Ntinu scepter of authority, carved with rich, detailed iconography. At the back is a crocodile swallowing a human, and at the front is the hieratic chief, shown seated, wearing earrings, chewing and holding the sacred munkwisa root with his right hand, symbolizing the power of the royal word, and with his left hand holding a representation of the same nkama ntinu scepter, symbolizing royal authority. A symbol of power, the scepter is a badge of command reserved for Kongo royalty. Raoul Lehuard (cf. R. Lehuard, Art Bakongo. Insignes de pouvoir. Le sceptre, Arts d'Afrique Noire, Arnouville, 1998) has compiled a catalog raisonné. His research shows that the use of these scepters was strictly reserved for the king and the notables authorized to represent him. The masterpiece of a master Kongo sculptor, this ivory scepter embodies with rare symbolic density the authority, identity and spiritual stature of the sovereign it represents. Kongo, Democratic Republic of Congo Ivory, old chips and chips visible at the top and bottom, old cracks, very fine patina from use and ritual. H. 35 cm Provenance : Baron Fraddy Rolin Collection, New York / Brussels Marc Blanpain Collection, Brussels, acquired 2002 Publications and exhibitions: Christie's, Amsterdam, African and Oceanic Art - Collection Baron Freddy Rolin, July 2, 2002, n° 237 Félix, White Gold Black Hands, 2013, Vol. 2, pp. 20 / 40 and 87, n° 416 / 480 and 16