Kozo Kongo Fetish, Democratic Republic Of Congo
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe Name. Bakongo
Material. Wood, nails, iron
Dimensions. Length. 65 cm. Height: 26. Width: 27 cm
This sculpture depicts a Kongo fetish dog (often called a nkisi or kozo), a powerful ritual figure in traditional Kongo culture (originating in the region of the present-day Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, and Angola). Here is a detailed description of this remarkable work of art, as seen in the photographs:Morphological and Symbolic CharacteristicsTwo-headedness (double head): The dog has two heads facing opposite directions. This rare feature symbolizes the heightened vigilance of the protective spirit, capable of seeing both into the world of the living and into the world of the ancestors or the afterlife.The Heads and Muzzles: The heads are painted black with red accents and light lines. The mouths are large, slightly open, and reveal menacing fangs, embodying the ferocity necessary to ward off evil forces, witchcraft, or enemies.The Accumulation of Nails and Blades: The animal’s massive, stocky body is literally bristling with rusted wrought-iron nails, pieces of metal, and blades. In the nkisi tradition, each nail or embedded piece of metal represents a pact, an oath, or the seal of a request made by a community member to the fetish to settle a dispute or seek protection or justice.Ritual Elements and MaterialsThe bilongo (ritual charge): On the back and in the center of the body is a capsule or circular receptacle (often sealed with a mirror or organic material) that contains the magical or medicinal substance (bilongo) that activates the fetish’s spiritual power. This lid is surrounded by elements of animal origin (such as claws or teeth).The patina and structure: The body and the four short, sturdy legs are covered with a dark patina made of earth, resins, and organic materials. Braided fiber straps encircle the base of the neck of each head.This type of object was not merely a decorative sculpture, but a true agent of justice and healing, whose power was awakened by the blacksmith and the priest (the nganga) through rituals and the addition of metallic elements.
Tribe Name. Bakongo
Material. Wood, nails, iron
Dimensions. Length. 65 cm. Height: 26. Width: 27 cm
This sculpture depicts a Kongo fetish dog (often called a nkisi or kozo), a powerful ritual figure in traditional Kongo culture (originating in the region of the present-day Democratic Republic of the Congo, the Republic of the Congo, and Angola). Here is a detailed description of this remarkable work of art, as seen in the photographs:Morphological and Symbolic CharacteristicsTwo-headedness (double head): The dog has two heads facing opposite directions. This rare feature symbolizes the heightened vigilance of the protective spirit, capable of seeing both into the world of the living and into the world of the ancestors or the afterlife.The Heads and Muzzles: The heads are painted black with red accents and light lines. The mouths are large, slightly open, and reveal menacing fangs, embodying the ferocity necessary to ward off evil forces, witchcraft, or enemies.The Accumulation of Nails and Blades: The animal’s massive, stocky body is literally bristling with rusted wrought-iron nails, pieces of metal, and blades. In the nkisi tradition, each nail or embedded piece of metal represents a pact, an oath, or the seal of a request made by a community member to the fetish to settle a dispute or seek protection or justice.Ritual Elements and MaterialsThe bilongo (ritual charge): On the back and in the center of the body is a capsule or circular receptacle (often sealed with a mirror or organic material) that contains the magical or medicinal substance (bilongo) that activates the fetish’s spiritual power. This lid is surrounded by elements of animal origin (such as claws or teeth).The patina and structure: The body and the four short, sturdy legs are covered with a dark patina made of earth, resins, and organic materials. Braided fiber straps encircle the base of the neck of each head.This type of object was not merely a decorative sculpture, but a true agent of justice and healing, whose power was awakened by the blacksmith and the priest (the nganga) through rituals and the addition of metallic elements.
3 000 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Excellent condition
Material: Solid wood
Length: 65 cm
Width: 27 cm
Height: 26 cm
Reference (ID): 1810332
Availability: In stock
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