Africa | Democratic Republic of the Congo
Songye figure
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Nkisi power figure
Songye
19th century or early 20th century
Carved wood and metal
Height: 12 cm – 4 ¾ in.
Provenance
Collection Karel Plasmans, Belgium
Collection Guilhem Montagut, Barcelona
Songye figure 12 cm / Galerie Flak
Price on request
The Songye reside in the southeast of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, near the Lomami River in Central Africa. The political organization of the Songye is centered around the personality of their chief, a holy, benevolent figure endowed with magical-religious power. Secret societies also ensure social, political and religious stability.
Fetishes, amulets (boanga or nganga) and power figures (nkishi) are omnipresent among the Songye. These ritual figures are said to bring wealth, fertility and success. They also serve as a form of protection against hostile forces, such as lightning or diseases. The antelope horn at the top of the head of the carved figure was the receptacle for the « medicine », transmitting strength and magical power to its owner.
Fetishes, amulets (boanga or nganga) and power figures (nkishi) are omnipresent among the Songye. These ritual figures are said to bring wealth, fertility and success. They also serve as a form of protection against hostile forces, such as lightning or diseases. The antelope horn at the top of the head of the carved figure was the receptacle for the « medicine », transmitting strength and magical power to its owner.
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