Lot A117 - Kongo Power Figure (Nkisi)

Kongo Power Figure (Nkisi)

Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Height: 23 cm

Carved wooden power figure of the Kongo people, depicted seated with crossed legs and holding a circular abdominal cavity containing ritual substances. The figure displays a stylized head with incised geometric patterns on the coiffure, almond-shaped eyes, and a slightly open mouth. A metal neck ring encircles the figure’s throat, and the dark patina reflects long ritual use and handling.

Figures of this type, known as nkisi, served as spiritual containers used by ritual specialists. The cavity in the abdomen originally held sacred materials (bilongo) believed to activate the spiritual force of the figure. Such objects were used for protection, healing, oath-taking, and maintaining balance within the community.