Bakongo - Nkisi power figure - Bakongo - DR Congo

Exceptional collection of nkisi (minkisi) figurines - BAKONGO POWER

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

The coherence of the collection, the diversity of silhouettes, and the richness of the sculptural treatments make for a presentation that is particularly evocative of the ritual arts of the Kongo cultural area.

The figures stand out for their expressive faces, abdominal cavities, bindings, vegetal fibers, textiles, feathers and other applied elements. These characteristics 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 transcends the Western notion of “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 the maintenance of social order. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

This set offers a particularly charming overview of one of the major sculptural repertoires of Central Africa.

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

Presentation of our expert house

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

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

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."