The Power Statuette - Bakongo - Cameroon (No reserve price)

The Power Statuette
This piece is an object of intense ritual, often called a 'fetish' in classical African art.

Posture: A character standing with arms raised and hands resting on a load on their head. This pose evokes strength, support, or communication with the sky.

Nails and metal blades: The torso is dotted with nails and metal blades. This is the signature of an Nkisi Nkondi (or nail fetish). Each piece of inserted metal represents a sealed contract, a prayer, or a dispute submitted to the deity.

Sacred Attributes

A cauri (shell) is fixed on the forehead, symbolizing wealth and clairvoyance.

An abdominal cavity (often closed by a mirror or resin) once contained magical or medicinal substances.

A piece of cloth at the waist serves as a ritual garment.

Probable origin: It is a characteristic work of the Kongo people (Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola).