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

The figures stand out for their expressive faces, their abdominal cavities, their bindings, plant fibers, textiles, feathers, and other attached elements. These features refer to the plastic vocabulary of minkisi (singular: nkisi), sculptures intended to embody a spiritual force or a specific function within Kongo societies. The term nkisi surpasses the Western notion of a “fetish.” (Smithsonian National Museum of African Art)

In Kongo tradition, the sculptor fashioned the figure before the nganga (ritual specialist) inserted the bilongo—substances placed in cavities of the body to concentrate a power related notably to protection, healing, mediation, or the maintenance of social order. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

This set offers a particularly appealing panorama of one of the major sculptural repertoires of Central Africa.

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

Repair to one arm

Presentation of our appraisal house

Based in Belgium, our appraisal and sale house specializes in African and ethnographic art. A reference seller on Catawiki for over 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with an almost 100% satisfaction rate.

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 often reserve-free sales.

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."}