FETISH called Kongo Nkisi - Komo culture, Democratic Republic of Congo - First half of the 20th century

FETISH called Kongo Nkisi
Komo culture, Democratic Republic of Congo
First half of the 20th century
Wood, fabric and seeds
Length: 11.5 cm; Width: 9.5 cm
(restoration)

A carved wooden fetish of an anthropomorphic figure, laden with various bilongo that imbue it with magic. Among these attributes: dried seeds, pieces of red cloth likely concealing its reliquary – its abdominal contents protected by a mirror.

The small size of this nkisi, or nkishi, allows us to understand its purpose. Indeed, it was intended for a specific individual for their personal use. It was thus kept at the owner's home – which differs from the large minkishi that were intended for collective use.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref.: 6601