Fetish Figure ‘Nkisi’

Kusu or Songye, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Early 20th century

Wood, Metal, Pigments

41.5cm Tall (50.5cm incl. horn)

Provenance:

Private Collection, Switzerland

Power figures are central components to the belief systems of many ethnic groups in the Congo, and some of the most recognizable of these originate from the Songye territory around the Lomami river. This figure could be either Songye or neighboring Kusu, as the style is one seen among both groups. The wooden statue is empowered with a horn, body charge, and holes drilled in the arms and filled with medicinal substance. The distinct face bears an agonized expression, testifying the years of use as an implement of spiritual control.