Masterworks: 19th & 20th C. Paintings
Nov 25, 2020
USA
 1243 Pond Street, Franklin. MA 02038
The auction has ended

LOT 213:

Pablo Picasso, Attributed/ Manner of: Visage


Start price:
$ 750
Estimated price:
$750 - $3,000
Auction house commission: 35%
tags:

Pablo Picasso, Attributed/ Manner of: Visage
Two-Headed Nkisi Figure, from the Bacongo people, Democratic Republic of Congo, late 19th Century, circa 1884. Made of wood, pigments, fabric, glass nails and natural elements.

A nkisi (plural: minkisi) is loosely translated as a "spirit" yet 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 container for such elements in its torso. The glass covering represents the otherworldly use of its contents.

The representation of two heads, with each painted in two colors, shows that the nkisi can see into the world of spirits as well as seeing the living world.

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 ‘curing’ physical, social or spiritual ailments.

This piece will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. 23" x 12" x 9"