Power Figure
Vili (Kongo)
Description
Subject Matter:
Nkisi is a generic term for a class of power objects. These objects are employed as solutions to social and physical problems. They are ritually charged objects, able to facilitate movement of spirits between different points of existence. This figure's crossed legs and arm positioning (one up, one down) signify the ability to connect different points. It represents the thinker, an ancestor who guards and protects the lives of his descendants.
Physical Description:
Carved wooden figure of a human. The umbilicus protrudes and is concave, which would have held magical/medicinal substances. The figure is posed with crossed legs and one hand supporting the head. The face is detailed, with glass eyes. A metal ring was placed around the neck of the figure. The top of the head is empty, but possibly contained magical substances as well.
Usage Rights:
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