DR Congo
06
days
16
hours
39
minutes
19
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 170 - € 200
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Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Bakongo
Material. Wood
Dimension. 30 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h open.
This decorative sculpture is a magnificent example of the ritual art of the Yombé people (a subgroup of the Kongo) from the region located between the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo-Brazzaville and Angola (Cabinda).
Here is a detailed analysis of this piece, which appears to be a Nkisi (plural: Minkisi):
1. The Nature of the Object: A "Nkisi"
It is a power object, often called Nkisi. In Kongo culture, a Nkisi is not merely a decorative statue, but a receptacle intended to contain spiritual forces.
The role: It was used by a healer or diviner (nganga) to cure diseases, protect a community, or seal oaths.
The ventral cavity: The gaping hole at the abdomen is the central element. Originally, this cavity contained magical and medicinal substances (bilongo), often protected by a piece of glass or a mirror. The mirror symbolically allowed the spirit to see approaching enemies or harm.
2. Iconographic Features
The posture: The figure is seated cross-legged, a position evoking meditation, dignity, and authority. The hands resting on the knees reinforce this calm, contained power.
The face: The features are characteristic of the Yombé style: almond-shaped eyes, a well-defined nose, and full lips. The forehead often bears scars, signs of social rank or protection.
The headdress: He wears a richly decorated cap (often a mpu), a symbol of a chief or dignitary.
The textile: The presence of fabrics or fibers around the neck and shoulders is typical. These additions were made during the object's consecration to "charge" its power.
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Bakongo
Material. Wood
Dimension. 30 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h open.
This decorative sculpture is a magnificent example of the ritual art of the Yombé people (a subgroup of the Kongo) from the region located between the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo-Brazzaville and Angola (Cabinda).
Here is a detailed analysis of this piece, which appears to be a Nkisi (plural: Minkisi):
1. The Nature of the Object: A "Nkisi"
It is a power object, often called Nkisi. In Kongo culture, a Nkisi is not merely a decorative statue, but a receptacle intended to contain spiritual forces.
The role: It was used by a healer or diviner (nganga) to cure diseases, protect a community, or seal oaths.
The ventral cavity: The gaping hole at the abdomen is the central element. Originally, this cavity contained magical and medicinal substances (bilongo), often protected by a piece of glass or a mirror. The mirror symbolically allowed the spirit to see approaching enemies or harm.
2. Iconographic Features
The posture: The figure is seated cross-legged, a position evoking meditation, dignity, and authority. The hands resting on the knees reinforce this calm, contained power.
The face: The features are characteristic of the Yombé style: almond-shaped eyes, a well-defined nose, and full lips. The forehead often bears scars, signs of social rank or protection.
The headdress: He wears a richly decorated cap (often a mpu), a symbol of a chief or dignitary.
The textile: The presence of fabrics or fibers around the neck and shoulders is typical. These additions were made during the object's consecration to "charge" its power.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Height
30 cm
Sold by
