Bidspirit auction | African Power Figure (Nkisi Nkondi),

African Power Figure (Nkisi Nkondi), Songye or Kongo Peoples, Congo Basin, Mid-20th Century - Carved wooden power figure with applied ritual materials, the figure characterized by a helmet-like coiffure, angular facial planes, and eyes highlighted in white pigment. The torso is wrapped in natural fiber cords and bound with feathers, shells, and small gourd amulets containing symbolic contents. Such Nkisi (or Nkondi) figures served as vessels for spiritual energy, used by Songye or Kongo diviners for protection, healing, and oath-taking rituals. Deeply patinated surface and organic accretions attest to ritual handling and age. Approx. 25 in. H, 8 in. W Condition: Heavy ritual encrustation and surface wear; cracks and losses consistent with age and ceremonial use; stable overall with authentic presentation.