Songye Tetela Nkishi figure
Magic among the Songye
Astonishing nkishi statue from the Songye Tetela in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This piece stands out for its very atypical style characteristic of the Tetela. The face is small, the chin pointed. The neck is more elongated than normal and the body gathered up on itself. The eyes are set with brass nails. Around the neck, glass bead necklaces. And at the top, three horns planted together in the skull of the nkishi.
This remarkable piece fulfilled the same role as the mankishi of other Songye subgroups, namely mainly the protection of its owner (s). Given the size of it, we guess that it is a figure of individual protection.
02011
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1950
- Size
- 29,5 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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Magic among the Songye
Astonishing nkishi statue from the Songye Tetela in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This piece stands out for its very atypical style characteristic of the Tetela. The face is small, the chin pointed. The neck is more elongated than normal and the body gathered up on itself. The eyes are set with brass nails. Around the neck, glass bead necklaces. And at the top, three horns planted together in the skull of the nkishi.
This remarkable piece fulfilled the same role as the mankishi of other Songye subgroups, namely mainly the protection of its owner (s). Given the size of it, we guess that it is a figure of individual protection.