Dog Vili Nkisi Congo

Superb Vili Nkisi dog from Congo, two-faced with its magical charge on its back. Body inlaid with iron, paws covered with animal skin, both necks wrapped in fabric. Beautiful patina of use, shiny in places (repeated handling). Height 25cm x 44cm long x 15cm wide max. Spectacular two-headed dog in hardwood with traces of polychromy and magical charge on its back. These sculptures, anthropomorphic or zoomorphic, have long been classified in the category of vengeful spirits, but their function is much more ambivalent.
It is when the Nganga completes the sculptor's work by driving the nails into the Nkonde that the latter acquires its magical power. Its action is not secret; on the contrary, its mission is public. Once the ailments and their culprit have been determined, the Nganga activates the Nkonde's power by driving in a nail or an iron blade, evidence of the request and, above all, of the agreement reached between the Nganga and its client. Often considered malevolent, these statuettes have the essential role of restoring social harmony, disrupted by the harmful intentions of a third party. A very beautiful collector's item with obvious signs of use. Free worldwide shipping.