Height 25 in., width 9 in., depth 10 in.

The object in the image is an African Nkisi Nkondi power figure, used by the Kongo people.These figures are believed to house spirits and are activated by driving nails, blades, or other sharp objects into them.Each insertion represents a vow, oath, or request for help, and the figure is called upon to resolve disputes, punish wrongdoers, and protect the community. The size suggests a grievance on a larger scale than personal dispute, that might be with an entire village or tribe. African Tribal Art: Bakongo people, Democratic Republic of Congo: A large Nkisi nkondi Power Figure with Two Heads, made of carved wood with nails, metal blades, fabric, pigments, animal horn, glass, shells and other natural materials. Mid 20th Century. The unusual feature of two heads indicates that the nkisi has the power to see in to the world of the living and the land of the dead, and is therefore extremely effective and powerful. A nkisi (plural: minkisi) is loosely translated as a spirityet it is represented as a container of sacred substances which are activated by supernatural forces that can be summoned into the physical world. This nkisi has a glass-covered container for such elements in its torso. eyes are also covered with glass, enhancing the figures other-worldly appearance. Nkisi nkondi A Nkisi nkondi (power figure) is a magical charm carved in the likeness of human being, meant to highlight its function in human affairs. A nkisi nkondi can be used to resolve verbal disputes or lawsuits (mambu) as well as to be an avenger (the term nkondi means hunter) or guardian if sorcery or any form of evil has been committed. Minkisi are carved under the divine authority and in consultation with an nganga or spiritual specialist. The nganga activates the figures through the insertion of nails, chanting, praying and the preparation of sacred substances which are aimed at physical, social or spiritual ailments. Comparable, but smaller, Nkisi NKondi figures are illustrated in Robbins and Nooter, AFRICAN ART IN AMERICAN COLLECTIONS, Page 369, plates 954 and 955. 35H x 16W x 12D (inches). Private Collection, Missouri, Private Collection, Illinois

Condition: Good Condition, showing age. No damage or apparent defects to report. If documentation is not listed or photographed, the lot is sold without documentation. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact Woodard Lipe Fine Art and Auction with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices with approximate shipping quotes available through UPS and their international partners for out of country. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.