Description
Bakongo Nkisi Fetish Doll covering in iron nails bound by fibers. Mirrored eyes and stomach. A power piece for any collection.
History: Conceived to house specific mystical forces, they were collaborative creations of a Kongo sculptor and a fetish preist (Nganga). After an artist completed carving the wooden receptacle, the Nganga filled it with powerful medicines (bilongo) that transformed it into an Nkisi capable of healing illness, settling disputes, safeguarding the peace, and punishing wrongdoers.
Bilongo combines organic and inorganic substances chosen for their cultural significance that may include plant fibers, resins, stones, relics and pigments, feathers, bones among others.
In figure here, the rectangular mirror-covered box protruding from the abdomen and the back sack are the primary receptacles for these potent materials with bound iron nails covering the body.
Origin: DRC / Zaire
Size: 13″ H x 11″ W approximate
