Fetish - Cord, Nail, Raphia, Wood - Bakongo - Congo - 34 cm

Democratic Republic of Congo. Bakongo or Kongo. Power figure. The nkisi n'kondi is a type of sculpture widespread in African art. The powerful figures, conceived to house mystical forces, were collaborative creations of sculptors and specialists in Kongo rituals. They attested to the oath of promise and the signing of covenants, and symbolised the eradication of evil. The various nails of his wide torso attest to his role as a witness and guardian of matters of vital importance to the community. With ventral cavity to contain sacred material, it’s missing the glass or mirror and has a desiccation crack in the left arm without repair, raffia as a skirt on the round base. 340 x 130 x 140 700 g Postal package.