Songye Nkishi power figure
€3,500.00
This major Songye power figure, nkishi, stands out for its strong sculptural presence and particularly refined execution. Coming from the private collection of Bob Berete, a historic and widely respected figure in the tribal art market, this work belongs to a lineage of important discoveries that have entered leading museums and prestigious private collections. Such provenance gives the piece exceptional artistic and documentary value.
The sculpture displays a powerful vertical structure, dominated by a head with firm, balanced volumes, topped by a crest-like element that reinforces its spiritual authority. The face, with its controlled and geometric features, conveys vigilance and restraint. The compact torso is centered around a ventral cavity, a key element of mankishi figures, intended to contain the magical substances that activate their power. The presence of beads, nails, and ritual materials attests to sustained and effective ritual use. The deep, dark patina results from repeated handling and the application of ritual substances.
Among the Songye, the nkishi played a central role in social and spiritual regulation. It was used for protection, justice, healing, and the maintenance of community balance. Activated by a nganga, the figure embodied an autonomous force capable of addressing threats and restoring order. Both a sculptural masterpiece and an active spiritual entity, this Songye nkishi powerfully expresses the symbolic depth and formal excellence of Central African art.
Shipping fees
02606
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1950
- Size
- 50 cm (54 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Origin
- B. Berete Collection
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Very good
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This major Songye power figure, nkishi, stands out for its strong sculptural presence and particularly refined execution. Coming from the private collection of Bob Berete, a historic and widely respected figure in the tribal art market, this work belongs to a lineage of important discoveries that have entered leading museums and prestigious private collections. Such provenance gives the piece exceptional artistic and documentary value.
The sculpture displays a powerful vertical structure, dominated by a head with firm, balanced volumes, topped by a crest-like element that reinforces its spiritual authority. The face, with its controlled and geometric features, conveys vigilance and restraint. The compact torso is centered around a ventral cavity, a key element of mankishi figures, intended to contain the magical substances that activate their power. The presence of beads, nails, and ritual materials attests to sustained and effective ritual use. The deep, dark patina results from repeated handling and the application of ritual substances.
Among the Songye, the nkishi played a central role in social and spiritual regulation. It was used for protection, justice, healing, and the maintenance of community balance. Activated by a nganga, the figure embodied an autonomous force capable of addressing threats and restoring order. Both a sculptural masterpiece and an active spiritual entity, this Songye nkishi powerfully expresses the symbolic depth and formal excellence of Central African art.