Mahongwe is a sub-culture of the Bacota and reliquary guardian figures like this one have usually mounted on containers holding the bones and relics of important clan ancestors to act as guardians.

This figures is carved wood with hammered copper and brass head and an elongated neck accentuated by rope coiled around the neck for design. They are sometimes used in Nomination ceremonies for the new chief and dedicated to the spirit of the deceased chief and ancestors.

These are very rare antiques styles of the Guardian Figures.