ClassificationsAfrican Art
Power Figure (Ekishi Omoi), Nkisi
AAT Object Form/FunctionMinkisi
AAT Object Form/FunctionFigure works
Place FoundDemocratic Republic of the Congo, Africa
Credit LineGift of Rev. J.H. Maw
Dimensions5 3/16 x 14 15/16 in. (13.1 x 37.9 cm)
Object number1935.001.020
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 combined. 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 such as this object, pendants, and even "nails". 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.
ProvenancePreviously owned by a witch doctor, Eyaka, Zaire. Ex coll. Rev. Joseph H. Maw (1898-1986), South Carolina, acquired in Eyaka, Zaire, prior to 1935.
Status
Not on viewCollections
- African Art
before 1935
before 1935
before 1935
before 1935
before 1935
before 1935
before 1935
late 19th-early 20th Century
late 19th-early 20th Century
late 19th-early 20th Century
early-mid 20th Century
19th-20th Century
