Power Figure: Male (Nkisi)

Kongo peoples

Not on view

Designed as a site to which mystical force might be drawn, power figures were the collaborative creations of sculptors and ritual specialists (banganga, singular nganga). Banganga placed powerful medicinal matter called bilongo - whose mineral, plant, and animal ingredients were chosen for their cultural significance - into a carved receptacle, transforming the vessel into an instrument capable of curing illness, settling disputes, safeguarding the peace, and punishing wrongdoers. The numerous blades and nails embedded in the figure's body attest to its extensive use in the practice of a an nganga, who acted as an intercessor on behalf of his clientele.

Power Figure: Male (Nkisi), Wood, glass, metal, cloth, organic matter, Kongo peoples

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Power Figure: Male (Nkisi), Wood, glass, metal, cloth, organic matter, Kongo peoples
Power Figure: Male (Nkisi), Wood, glass, metal, cloth, organic matter, Kongo peoples
Power Figure: Male (Nkisi), Wood, glass, metal, cloth, organic matter, Kongo peoples

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