Congo Nkonde

Most Congo natives adhere to age-old tradition for problem solving. They place their trust in the powers of the fetish to aid them during times of need. The small wooden fetish used for personal use is known as Nkisi. Larger carved figures used for collective ceremonies between family members or whole villagers are called Nknode. Each is believed to have supernatural powers brought about through the magical workings of the village Nganga (fetishtist). The Nganga creates and activates this power by placing medicines such as animal or human parts, clay, plants and other indigenous items around and inside the object. The fetish may be called upon to deal with issues concerning; disease, protection, sex or good fortune in general. It is also involved in tribal commitments whereas the fetish acts as a witness to the promise made; with each nail driven by a different villager that is involved. The open mouthed fetish is subject to food offerings and prayer on a regular basis by the owner out of faith and to maintain the objects' level of power. Our young Nkonde offers a host of ritual material keeping instep with time honored tradition...

The worn wooden headdress is fitted atop with worn bird quills. An unusual full sized, closed off, cloth wrapped quivver bound by thick twine, adorned with animal bones and large shells protrude from the back. The front has several committal nails embedded along the shoulders and torso and the entwined neck has two native, well valued seeds that serve as medallions. The protruding belly also bound by twine is surrounded by two large shells. Wooden pegs have been driven through both feet and lace the sturdy base.

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