Kongo Nkisi Fetish - DR Congo
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 170 - € 200
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This 28 cm Kongo nkisi figure from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, dating from the mid-20th century, is made of wood with plant fibres, textiles, feathers and glass-inlaid eyes, and comes from a private collection.
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Description from the seller
Kongo Nkisi Figure
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Beautiful satin-like dark brown patina
Wood, plant fibers, textiles, feathers and other attached elements
Beautiful expression, highly expressive face with open mouth and glass-inlaid eyes, charges on the front and back, feet firmly planted on its base
These characteristics reflect the visual vocabulary of minkisi (singular: nkisi), sculptures intended to embody a spiritual force or a specific function within Kongo societies. The term nkisi also goes beyond the Western notion of a “fetish.” (Smithsonian National Museum of African Art)
In the Kongo tradition, the sculptor carved the figure before the nganga (ritual specialist) inserted the bilongo, substances placed in cavities in the body to concentrate a power associated in particular with protection, healing, mediation or the maintenance of social order. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)
Clear signs of use
Presumed date: mid-20th century.
Height: 28 cm
The photos form part of the description
Insured shipping by registered mail with tracking number
Kongo Nkisi Figure
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Beautiful satin-like dark brown patina
Wood, plant fibers, textiles, feathers and other attached elements
Beautiful expression, highly expressive face with open mouth and glass-inlaid eyes, charges on the front and back, feet firmly planted on its base
These characteristics reflect the visual vocabulary of minkisi (singular: nkisi), sculptures intended to embody a spiritual force or a specific function within Kongo societies. The term nkisi also goes beyond the Western notion of a “fetish.” (Smithsonian National Museum of African Art)
In the Kongo tradition, the sculptor carved the figure before the nganga (ritual specialist) inserted the bilongo, substances placed in cavities in the body to concentrate a power associated in particular with protection, healing, mediation or the maintenance of social order. (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)
Clear signs of use
Presumed date: mid-20th century.
Height: 28 cm
The photos form part of the description
Insured shipping by registered mail with tracking number
Details
Indigenous object name
Kongo Nkisi Fetish
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Height
28 cm
Provenance
Private collection
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