Bakongo - Nkisi fetish figure - Bakongo - DR Congo

Continuation and conclusion of our exceptional collection of nkisi (minkisi) statuettes - BAKONGO POWER

This set brings together a remarkable corpus of statuettes inspired by the Kongo tradition (Bakongo).

The coherence of the whole, the diversity of silhouettes, and the richness of the sculptural treatments make it a particularly evocative presentation of the ritual arts of the Kongo cultural area.

The figures are distinguished by their expressive faces, abdominal cavities, ties, plant fibers, textiles, feathers and other attached elements. These features refer to the plastic vocabulary of minkisi (singular: nkisi), sculptures meant to embody a spiritual force or a specific function within Kongo societies. The term nkisi moreover goes beyond the Western notion of a “fetish.” (Smithsonian National Museum of African Art)

In Kongo tradition, the sculptor shaped the figure before the nganga (ritual specialist) introduced the bilongo, substances placed in cavities of the body to concentrate power linked notably to protection, healing, mediation, or maintaining social order. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

This ensemble offers a particularly seductive panorama of one of the major sculptural repertoires of Central Africa.

Each statuette will be auctioned individually, marking its first public sale presentation, thus giving collectors the opportunity to acquire a work within a remarkably coherent aesthetic and iconographic ensemble.

Repair to one arm

Presentation of our expertise house

Based in Belgium, our expert house and sales platform specializes in African art and ethnography. A reference seller on Catawiki for over 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with nearly 100% customer satisfaction.

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 many sales offered without a reserve price.

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

Shipping guaranteed within 24 hours, with careful packaging, insurance, and tracking.
Contact 7 days a week: we remain available for any questions or requests for additional information.