Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Songye culture, ca. 20th century CE. A special wooden nkisi (power or fetish) figure, hand-carved from wood that presents with a dark brown hue. The figure holds both arms towards a distended abdomen and has a sizable head with crescent-shaped eyes as well as protruding lips. Nkisi figures were made by a variety of cultures to fight evil spirits, heal sick family members, decide arguments, mark an important occasion or contract, or perform a variety of other tasks. These figures often show signs of use, because a priest or other holy person had to "activate" them using magical substances. Size: 1.7" W x 4.75" H (4.3 cm x 12.1 cm); 5.5" H (14 cm) on included custom stand. Size: 1.7" W x 4.75" H (4.3 cm x 12.1 cm); 5.5" H (14 cm) on included custom stand. Size: 1.7" L x 1.7" W x 4.75" H (4.3 cm x 4.3 cm x 12.1 cm); 5.5" H (14 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Drs. Noble and Jean Endicott collection, New York, USA

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#178891

  • Condition: Losses to front of base and small areas of head, with stable fissure to head, and softening to some finer details, otherwise in very good condition. Nice patina throughout. Old inventory number written in white around base.

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July 21, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000