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© Bruce M. White, 2010.
Power Object, Nkisi
© Bruce M. White, 2010.
© Bruce M. White, 2010.
© Bruce M. White, 2010.
ClassificationsAfrican Art

Power Object, Nkisi

AAT Object Form/FunctionMinkisi
AAT Object Form/FunctionAmulet
AAT Object Form/FunctionDevontional Jewelry
Place FoundEkaya, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Africa
CultureSongye
Datebefore 1935
Credit LineGift of Rev. J.H. Maw
Dimensions9 3/16 (23.3 x 0.1 cm)
Object number1935.001.021
Label TextPower objects, generically referred to as nkisi (pl. minkisi/mankisi), are a common feature of many cultures of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Nkisi were used by diviners and healers to contact benevolent spirits in the hope of curing illness, infertility, or other maladies. The efficacy of nkisi derives from combinations of empowering substances, called bishimba. Substances, such as clay, vegetable matter, stones, fur, seeds, and horns were combine. Formulas according to which bishimba are assembled effects a mystical reaction, bringing spirit forces into play with the physical world.

Nkisi take many forms, from human figures to horns, bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and even "nails", the term used to describe this nkisi. This object was collected in the town of Eyaka in former Zaire by Reverend J.H. Maw some time before 1935. Maw commissioned many pieces, and documented their method of manufacture and purpose as forms of bwanga (medicine). While some were designed to remedy existing problems, such as infertility, spasms, or insanity, lack of appetite, social discord with neighbors, or run-ins with state officials, others were commissioned to preempt potential problems revealed to a client through portentous dreams.
Exhibition HistoryDivine Intervention: African Art and Religion, Michael C. Carlos Museum, Febraury 5 - December 4, 2011
ProvenanceEx coll. Rev. Joseph H. Maw (1898-1986), South Carolina, acquired in Eyaka, Zaire, prior to 1935.
Status
Not on view
Collections
  • African Art
© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University.  Photo by Michael McKelvey.
late 19th-early 20th Century
© Bruce M. White, 2010.
late 19th-early 20th Century
© Bruce M. White, 2008.
late 19th-early 20th Century
© Bruce M. White, 2016.
early-mid 20th Century