ClassificationsAfrican Art

Power Object, Nkisi

AAT Object Form/FunctionMinkisi

AAT Object Form/FunctionDevontional Jewelry

AAT Object Form/FunctionAmulets

Place FoundEyaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Africa

CultureSongye

Datebefore 1935

MediumWood, shell

Credit LineGift of Rev. J.H. Maw

Dimensions7/8 x 3 1/4 in. (2.2 x 8.2 cm)

Object number1935.001.014

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, necklace, 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.
Exhibition HistoryDivine Intervention: African Art and Religion, Michael C. Carlos Museum, February 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

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