Nkisi N'Kondi Power Figure, Bakongo People, DR Congo/Zaire

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Connoisseur's Collection: African Tribal Art

By 500 Gallery

Oct 26, 2022

Set Reminder 2022-10-26 17:30:00 2022-10-26 17:30:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Connoisseur's Collection: African Tribal Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/500-gallery/connoisseurs-collection-african-tribal-art-10764
African tribal sculptures and masks from the late 1800's through the mid 20th century. Rare masterpiece examples of Bangwa, Dogon, Baule, Ibibio, Yoruba, Bakongo and Senufo art gathered over the past decades. The selection is from the private collection of Massachusetts Gentlemen. 500 Gallery info@500gallery.com

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• Lot Description
  African Tribal Art: Bakongo people, Democratic Republic of Congo: A large Nkisi n'kondi Power Figure, made of carved wood, pigments, fabric, glass, nails and natural elements. Early 20th Century.
  
  A nkisi (plural: minkisi) is loosely translated as a "spirit" yet it is represented as a container of sacred substances which are activated by supernatural forces that can be summoned into the physical world. This nkisi has a container for such elements in its torso. The glass covering represents the otherworldly use of its contents. In addition, the eyes are glass-over-pigment, and there are several small fabric-wrapped packets interspersed among the nails.
  
  Nkisi n'kondi
  A Nkisi n'kondi (power figure) is a magical charm carved in the likeness of human being, meant to highlight its function in human affairs. A nkisi nkondi can be used to resolve verbal disputes or lawsuits (mambu) as well as to be an avenger (the term nkondi means ‘hunter’) or guardian if sorcery or any form of evil has been committed.
  
  Minkisi are carved under the divine authority and in consultation with an nganga or spiritual specialist. The nganga activates the figures through the insertion of nails, chanting, praying and the preparation of sacred substances which are aimed at ‘curing’ physical, social or spiritual ailments.
  
  Comparable, but smaller, Nkisi N'Kondifigures are illustrated in Robbins and Nooter, AFRICAN ART IN AMERICAN COLLECTIONS, Page 369, plates 954 and 955.
  
  Dimensions: 31H x 17 W 12x D (inches)
  
  Provenance: Private collection.
  
  NOTE: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot.
  
  ***VIDEO: To see a 3D video of this item, copy and paste the link below into your search browser:
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  Provenance: Private Collection, Massachusetts, Private collection, New York
  
  Dimensions: See Description

  Condition

  Good condition with evidence of handling and age.
  Note: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot.
  
  NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.
  
  Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.
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