African Bakongo Wood Nkisi Nkondi (power Figure) - Mar 01, 2024 | Artemis Gallery In Co
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African Bakongo Wood Nkisi Nkondi (Power Figure)

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African Bakongo Wood Nkisi Nkondi (Power Figure)
African Bakongo Wood Nkisi Nkondi (Power Figure)
Item Details
Description
Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Bakongo peoples, ca. mid-20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden power figure, called a nkisi nkondi, their magic stems from materials often deposited in cavities - this figure has a box carved into the chest with a plate of glass over the opening. Vegetal fiber ropes, a dried gourd, and several nails have been attached over time. One hand is upraised holding a wooden spear, and the face is naturalistic with the remains of white and blue pigments on the surface. Spirits are thought to use these nkisi nkondi carvings to watch people, and these figures have traditionally been used to guide judgements of innocence or guilt. Nails are driven in to the surface to represent an occasion when two or more parties met to come to an agreement or solved a problem that had troubled villagers. In addition to settling disputes and helping pass judgements on crimes, nkisi nkondi have traditionally been used as village protectors and healers. Size with gourd: 5.75" L x 10" W x 23.5" H (14.6 cm x 25.4 cm x 59.7 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.

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#122132
Condition
Stable pressure fissures and wear throughout. Old insect holes and wear to the surfaces. Loss to glass pane inserted on the front (edges are not sharp). Flaking and losses to surface layers throughout. Fading to pigments. Tearing and fraying to ropes. Fair condition.
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African Bakongo Wood Nkisi Nkondi (Power Figure)

Estimate $600 - $900
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Starting Price $350
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Artemis Gallery

Artemis Gallery

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Louisville, CO, United States7,913 Followers
Auction Curated By
Bob Dodge
Owner/Executive Director, Antiquities & Pre-Columbian Art
Sydelle Dienstfrey
PhD. Art History, Director, Fine & Visual Arts
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