https://www.antiques.com/ https://www.antiques.com//images/antiques_logo.jpg https://www.antiques.com/ https://www.antiques.com/classified/1137860/Antique--African-Congo-Nkisi-Two-Headed-Animal-Nail-Fetish African kongo/yombe nkisi two headed animal nail fetish wood carving power figure ethnic group: yombe country of origin: dr congo material: wood, metal nails, cotton cloth, glass, pigment appx age: mid 20th century dimensions: 24" long x 7" wide x 8" tall to tallest nail overall condition: good an nkisi is essentially a container of spiritual forces that are directed to investigate the underlying cause of some chronic problem. As spiritual experts, banganga are approached by clients to address any of a multitude of crises that may emerge in the community, including illness, political instability, and social strife. Minkisi are essential to the nganga's profession, creating a focal point from which to draw upon the spirit realm and its powers. Just as minkisi are directed toward specific ends, the banganga that own and control them may be specialized to address specific issues. For instance, only experienced banganga assume the responsibility of the most powerful minkisi, those concerned with political matters and the administration of justice. after a sculptor carves the figure at the core of the nkisi, it is the responsibility of the nganga to customize it by adding symbolic materials. Consequently, each nkisi is a unique creation, and can be controlled only by the nganga that conceived of its arrangement. The nganga begins by packing various "medicines" about the head and body of the figure. These are weighted with sacred power and spiritual implications, and are often tightly wrapped in knots and nets to give visual expression to the idea of contained forces. The diverse ingredients of the medicines may include special earths and stones, leaves and seeds, parts of animals, bird beaks and feathers, and are specifically combined to attract and direct forces to the desired goal. The figure's belly, or mooyo—which, not coincidentally, also translates as "life" or "soul"—is another spiritual focal point, packed with medicines and then sealed with resin.

Item Price : $300.00

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