Bakongo medicinal vial
€140.00
Medicinal vials play a significant role in African art and cultural practices, notably among the Bakongo of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Medicinal Vials in Africa
Ritual Use: Medicinal vials are often used in healing and protection rituals.
Materials: They can be made of wood, clay, or natural materials, often decorated with significant symbols and motifs.
Content: They typically contain herbs, powders, oils, or sacred mixtures prepared by traditional healers.
Bakongo Medicinal Vials
Symbolism: Among the Bakongo, these vials, called "nkisi" or "bilongo," are imbued with spiritual powers. They serve to invoke protective spirits or channel healing energies.
Crafting: The vials can be adorned with fabrics, beads, and feathers. They are often sealed with resin to preserve their sacred content.
Use: Used by nganga (healers or priests), they play a central role in healing ceremonies, protection rituals, and divinatory practices.
Cultural Importance
Medicinal vials are more than utilitarian objects; they are testaments to the richness of African spiritual traditions and beliefs. They illustrate the deep connection between the physical and spiritual worlds in African cultures and their crucial role in the health and well-being of communities.
02516
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1960
- Size
- 19 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Vintage
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Medicinal vials play a significant role in African art and cultural practices, notably among the Bakongo of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Medicinal Vials in Africa
Ritual Use: Medicinal vials are often used in healing and protection rituals.
Materials: They can be made of wood, clay, or natural materials, often decorated with significant symbols and motifs.
Content: They typically contain herbs, powders, oils, or sacred mixtures prepared by traditional healers.
Bakongo Medicinal Vials
Symbolism: Among the Bakongo, these vials, called "nkisi" or "bilongo," are imbued with spiritual powers. They serve to invoke protective spirits or channel healing energies.
Crafting: The vials can be adorned with fabrics, beads, and feathers. They are often sealed with resin to preserve their sacred content.
Use: Used by nganga (healers or priests), they play a central role in healing ceremonies, protection rituals, and divinatory practices.
Cultural Importance
Medicinal vials are more than utilitarian objects; they are testaments to the richness of African spiritual traditions and beliefs. They illustrate the deep connection between the physical and spiritual worlds in African cultures and their crucial role in the health and well-being of communities.