Artwork Page for Power figure (nkisi)

Details / Information for Power figure (nkisi)

Power figure (nkisi)

late 1800s-early 1900s

Central Africa, Republic of the Congo, Kongo people

Medium
Wood, organic materials (including resin), probably kaolin, and metalized glass
Measurements
Overall: 17 x 7 x 6.5 cm (6 11/16 x 2 3/4 x 2 9/16 in.)
Credit Line
René and Odette Delenne Collection, Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund 2010.438
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

This is the only figure in a group of seven found in a French antique shop adopting a threatening pose.

Description

This figure is of the nduda type, characterized by the attached "guns" loaded with gunpowder and used to shoot witches. It is the only figure that adopts the threatening pose: the right hand raised, holding a spear or knife, and the left hand resting on the hip. Two guns protrude horizontally on both sides of the cylindrical medicine pack on the belly, covered with a round piece of mirror.
A standing wood figure, coated in white and dark pigments, is topped by a tall, textured resin headdress. Its face features large eyes and dark pigment around the mouth. One arm is raised while the other hand rests on a drum-like form protruding from its stomach, which holds a reflective glass circle. The figure stands on a circular wooden base, its compact body supported by short, sturdy legs.

Power figure (nkisi)

late 1800s-early 1900s

Central Africa, Republic of the Congo, Kongo people

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