Fetish statue - Bakongo - DR Congo

The Bakongo fetishes, called Nkisi, are sacred sculptures from central Congo, animated by the belief in a spiritual force (nkisi) housed in the body of the object. Often made of wood, earth, resin, and organic elements (nails, shells, hair), they serve as receptacles for healing or protective spirits.

Each accompanying element seals a vow, activates protection, or triggers a healing, turning the object into a living mediator between the living and the ancestors. The accumulation of these elements creates a visual memory of past pacts, making the Nkisi unique and powerful. Far from being mere static idols, they embody a dynamic theology in which matter and spirit mingle to resolve conflicts, heal ills, or punish transgressions, reflecting a worldview where human action and divine will are inseparable.

Introduction to our expertise house

Based in Belgium, our house of expertise and sales specializes in African and ethnographic art. A leading seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we enjoy a strong reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with a satisfaction rate nearly 100%.

We regularly assist with liquidations, successions and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with private individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent and accessible, with sales often offered without a reserve price.

Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.

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