An exceptional standing wooden Nkonde figure from what is now the
Democratic Republic of the Congo. About 19 inches tall, carved wood, body
covered with driven nails and metal blades complete with wooden spear. The
belly contains a sealed reliquary that traditionally contains magic
objects
and compounds, often comprised of items associated with ancestors within
the
family, clan, or community. These unique, traditional figures are
protective
talismans used by individuals, families, or communities to destroy or
weaken
evil spirits, to prevent or cure illnesses, to ward off evil and sorcery,
to
solemnize contracts or oath-taking, and to decide arguments. Small Nkonde
figures were family owned and were used to protect the home. Larger ones
would protect an entire village. Covered with bags of magical herbs and
studded with blades and nails these fetishes are traditionally activated
by
a nganga, or shaman, who specializes in contacting spirits in this world
and
the next. The spirit within the fetish is directly invoked by the nganga
and
asked to perform certain tasks. The shaman employs ritual chants and
special
herbs in the process of invoking the power of the fetish. Pounding in
nails,
blades, or exploding gunpowder in front of the figure helps focus the
spirit's
attention and enables it to be most effective. Each piece of iron driven
into this nkonde corresponds to a particular litigation during which the
magic powers of the object were invoked to find a settlement. Congo nail
fetishes are unique and powerful shamanic objects, revered and treasured
by
many outside the small area in Africa from which they originate. Always
very
displayable, nkonde nail fetish figures are at their best when placed
singly
under dramatic lighting. This particular nkonde is complete and possesses
great presence. Definitely a fine addition to a collection of shamanic,
talismanic materials. Shipping and handling for this item will be $15.00
to
all addresses within the US. Rates to other locations upon request.
Additional jpgs available - just ask.
View this at:
http://www.tribalartifacts.com/product_info.php/cPath/34/products_id/1209?osCsid=bcc9e51cc379914ee8267758b67beffd
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