Power figure "nkisi" · D. R. Congo, Bakongo / Vili / Yombe · ID: 3045074
sold
EUR 3,800
Provenance
Mon Steyaert, Brussels, BelgiumKetterer, Munich, 15 December 1990, lot 355
Henri Schouten, Amsterdam/Los Angeles, The Netherlands/USA (1991)
German Private Collection
Size
H: 26,5 cm
H: 10.4 inch
Description
wood, glass, resin / wax, rest., base
The figure shows four drilled holes originally serving for attachment of magical loading.
With his left arm planted defiantly on the hip, his right arm is raised aggressively in a fist with raised thumb; it held a removable spear or knife, which is now lost. The sculpture depicts a protective/ aggressive male, simultaneously warning foes of his power and prowess while possessing the ability to confront and destroy malevolent forces.
A man of rank and title, as evidenced by his set of ritually chipped teeth. He probably portrays “ne kongo”, the cultural hero founder of the Kongo kingdom who was a famous hunter and warrior.
Comparing literature
Felix, Marc L. (ed.), Kongo Kingdom Art, China 2003, p. 68
Publications
AHDRC: 0019561