Bakongo Nkisi Nkondi - DR Congo

Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Bakongo
Material. Wood, nails
Dimensions. 58 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24–48 hours

This work is an anthropomorphic wooden statuette attributable to the Kongo (Bakongo) artistic tradition of Central Africa. It depicts a standing female figure, facing forward, set on an integrated base.
The figure has a relatively large head, highly stylized facial features, and eyes inlaid with a light-colored material, giving its gaze a particularly intense presence. The coiffure is elaborate: it extends vertically from the top of the head and bears incised geometric decoration. Around the neck is a thick collar or ring covered with a lighter-colored material, which contrasts with the wood’s dark brown patina.
The body is rendered in a schematic yet expressive manner: broad shoulders, bent arms with the hands positioned at the hips, straight legs, and large sculpted feet with the toes indicated. The chest clearly indicates a female representation. On the abdomen there is a cavity or prepared area containing a charge, an important feature: it may correspond to a receptacle for a ritual or medicinal substance, often called bilongo in the Kongo context. If this interpretation is confirmed by examination of the object, the statuette may belong to the category of minkisi (singular: nkisi), objects imbued with a spiritual or protective function.
The surface has a dark, glossy patina, with numerous areas of wear, deposits, and variations in color. These features may indicate age, handling, or ritual practices, but a photograph alone does not make it possible to determine the piece’s age, authenticity, or exact function.