Rare Antique Nailed Wooden Bakongo Nkondi Figure, African Art

Bakongo Nkisi Nkondi Figure, Nineteenth Century

Nkisi nkondi was the name given to sculptures of the Bakongo (or Kongo) Kingdom imbued with magical powers. The creation of a nkisi nkondi figure was a collaborative effort. First a sculptor created the figure, leaving a hollow protrustion from the belly of the sculpture. Then, a specialist known as the nganga filled the cavity with substances of magical significance (bilongo): grave dirt, blood, or other organic material. The cavity was then sealed, in this case with glass, imbuing the image with magical powers. The figure was activated by abusing the image, in most cases by driving a nail into the wood. Each nail stands as testament to a consultation with the spirits embodied by the figure; by piercing the wood with a nail, it was thought that the spirits would become enraged, and meet out punishment on an enemy or offender. In fact, the name nkondi refers to the spirit’s ability to hunt down and punish wrongdoers. Sometimes ‘dogs’, small bundles of fabric, were attached to the nail, containing something relevant to the request (fur from a stolen goat, for example), in order to guide the spirit towards the correct party.

The nails in nkisi nkondi statues acted as a permanent reminder of past wrongdoing, serving to rebalance order in the community. This rare antique Bakongo Nkondi figure is a stunning piece of African art that will add a unique touch to any collection. Crafted from wood and featuring intricate nail detailing, this statue is a true treasure for any lover of African culture. The Bakongo people are known for their rich artistic traditions, and this figure is no exception.

Measurements are 15.5 inches by 8 inches