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 overall 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 are distinguished by their expressive faces, their abdominal cavities, their wrappings, plant fibers, textiles, feathers and other added elements. These characteristics relate 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 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) 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 ensemble 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, thereby giving collectors the opportunity to acquire a work within a set of remarkable aesthetic and iconographic coherence.

Presentation of our expert house

Based in Belgium, our expert and sales house specializes in African art and ethnography. A leading seller on Catawiki for more than 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 individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent, and accessible, with many sales offered without reserve.

Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, in some cases, institutions in the museum sector.

Shipping ensured within 24 hours, with careful packaging, insurance, and tracking.
Phone/Chat 7 days a week: we remain available for any questions or requests for further information.