Large power figure "nkisi" ·  D. R. Congo, Songye · ID: 3032125

Description

wood, blackish brown patina, string of coconut discs, typical posture and facial features, 5 flat hammered loop-shaped iron blades across the forehead, opening and drilled holes in the head, slightly dam., missing parts, cracks, traces of insect caused damage (base);
Songe power figures known as “minkishi” range from small, privately owned images to large community guardians like the present one.They were “loaded” with magical substances “bishimba” to grant protection and fertility. In most cases they were handed down from generation to generation. The small personal “nkisi” were taken along when leaving familiar surroundings. Some paraphernalia should enhance the visual effect of the “nkisi”. Ornamental metal tags like the present signalize power and effectiveness of the “mankisi” powers.

Comparing literature

Schädler, Karl-Ferdinand, Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture, München 2009, p. 557