Power figure "nkisi" in miniature form
D. R. Congo, Songye
not available anymore
Provenance
John Lens, Antwerp, BelgiumPierre Dartevelle, Brussels, Belgium
Size
H: 10,5 cm
H: 4.1 inch
Description
wood, shiny brown patina, fine work of carving, cavities in head and stomach for insertion of magical loading, slightly dam. (toes of the left foot), base.
Such small “nkisi” figures were made for the private use of an individual, customized to his or her personal needs by the “nganga”. In order to motivate the ancestors to provide assistance in a personal crisis, suppliants offer prayers and sacrifices to them.