ART 101 week 2 discussion 2

I chose this Power Figure: Male (Nkisi)

This is practiced in Africa, division between the land of the living and the land of the dead
and represents the meeting place of these two worlds, or the "crossroads." The gong and
other musical instruments of this type are believed to sound in the land of the dead and are

therefore used to call the spirit of the "nkisi." The sacred conga drum is another way they
call upon the spirits as well.
This figure represents power, with all the different amulets and wood carving. It is said
this Nkisi, is then called an nganga transformed it into an object capable of healing
illness, settling disputes, safeguarding the peace, and punishing wrongdoers. Each work of
this kind or "nkisi" is associated with a spirit that is subjected to a degree of human control.
The term "nkisi" may relate to a wide spectrum of physical receptacles, including cloth
packets, filled vessels, as well as the carved wood sculptures studied by art historians. This
piece is especially admired for its reflective inward expression.
Cloth and tied bundles, like those seen in abundance on this "nkisi," have multiple
interpretations. Knots and the act of tying are associated with the binding and capturing of
a spirit. Additionally, cloth as a cherished commodity represents a generous financial
offering made to the "nkisi" in gratitude for its assistance. Finally, cloth taken from
intimate garments seals the connection between a supplicant and the "nkisi."
I find this culture from Africa interesting and captivating. I have done research in the past
on the Congo people and find their beliefs and ways so fascinating.

Date: 19thmid-20th century

Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Culture: Congo peoples
Medium: Wood, pigment, nails, cloth, beads, shells, arrows, leather, nuts, twine

http://www.metmuseum.org/collection/the-collection-online/search/312342