Figure magique "nkisi" ·  R. D. Congo, Bakongo / Vili / Yombe · ID: 3045074

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.

Littérature comparée

Felix, Marc L. (ed.), Kongo Kingdom Art, China 2003, p. 68

Publications

AHDRC: 0019561