Kongo Nkisi Nkondi fetish figure
Magical practices in african Kongo art
Powerful Kongo nkisi nkondi fetish in the form of a kneeling figure whose body has been largely covered with nails. We will also note the presence of a dorsal cavity which originally housed a magic charge maintained and closed by a piece of glass or mirror.
The character shows a strong facial expression supported by the addition of white pigment on the teeth and in the eyes. This type of fetish, in African art, was sometimes protective, sometimes intended to cast spells on the enemy. Adding nails increased its power.
01857
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 27 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Vintage
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Magical practices in african Kongo art
Powerful Kongo nkisi nkondi fetish in the form of a kneeling figure whose body has been largely covered with nails. We will also note the presence of a dorsal cavity which originally housed a magic charge maintained and closed by a piece of glass or mirror.
The character shows a strong facial expression supported by the addition of white pigment on the teeth and in the eyes. This type of fetish, in African art, was sometimes protective, sometimes intended to cast spells on the enemy. Adding nails increased its power.