Songye Nkishi power figure
Magico-protective objects in the Basongye tradition
In the African art of R. D. Congo, magico-protective objects occupied a fundamental role in the ritual practices of the Songye.
The relationship with supernatural entities was concretized by the preparation of propitiatory artefacts made up of various ingredients and substances in which matter was an essential part of their action, to the point of becoming, itself, an instrument of connection between humans and non-humans.
For these practices, the figurative representations, the mankishi, were “loaded” with magic ingredients and served as intermediaries between men and spirits.
The convergence between these ritual "power" figures and the ancestors is probably the effect of an evolution towards a more centralized socio-political authority that took place during the 19th century.
Nails have been driven into the head and body, giving this figure extra power.
Pearl necklaces as well as small accessories and a summit horn are still present.
Finally, a thick polychrome patina covers the piece, witness to libations intended to recharge the power of the nkishi.
Charged with all this magical power, the figure could not be touched but manipulated using metal rods and moved on a stretcher.
02284
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 43 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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Magico-protective objects in the Basongye tradition
In the African art of R. D. Congo, magico-protective objects occupied a fundamental role in the ritual practices of the Songye.
The relationship with supernatural entities was concretized by the preparation of propitiatory artefacts made up of various ingredients and substances in which matter was an essential part of their action, to the point of becoming, itself, an instrument of connection between humans and non-humans.
For these practices, the figurative representations, the mankishi, were “loaded” with magic ingredients and served as intermediaries between men and spirits.
The convergence between these ritual "power" figures and the ancestors is probably the effect of an evolution towards a more centralized socio-political authority that took place during the 19th century.
Nails have been driven into the head and body, giving this figure extra power.
Pearl necklaces as well as small accessories and a summit horn are still present.
Finally, a thick polychrome patina covers the piece, witness to libations intended to recharge the power of the nkishi.
Charged with all this magical power, the figure could not be touched but manipulated using metal rods and moved on a stretcher.