Ancient Songye Nkishi Fetish - Female Power Figure - Congo Drc

Ancient Songye power figure (Nkishi) from a former Belgian collection.

This remarkable wooden sculpture with a deep black-brown patina depicts a pregnant female anthropomorphic figure standing on an integrated base. The figure displays the emblematic characteristics of Songye statuary: voluminous head, half-closed almond-shaped eyes, finely sculpted mouth, long cylindrical neck and spectacular tapered summit crest.

The hands rest on the prominent abdomen, a symbol of fertility and lineage continuity. The sculpture retains remnants of ancient organic material around the waist (animal skin, fibers and elements of ritual charge), testifying to its original function as a figure of protection and intercession.

Among the Songye people of today's Democratic Republic of Congo, figures of power were activated by magical substances intended to protect the community, promote prosperity and ward off harmful influences.

The ensemble shows good age, a homogeneous patina of use and traces of ritual use. Shrinkage cracks and wear consistent with the age of the piece.

Ethnicity: Songye
Origin: Democratic Republic of Congo
Materials: carved wood, ancient organic materials
Height: 45 cm
Provenance: former Belgian collection
Era: 20th century