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 organic items around and inside the object. The fetish may be called upon to deal with issues concerning; disease, protection, revenge 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 fetish offers a host of ritual material keeping instep with time honored tradition...This curiosity was devised to protect and strengthen a particular individual. This person asked for physical strength. A body shield of palm nut shells has been provided but most importantly a host of iron nails has been driven into one eye of the fetish leaving only one glass eye whole. The Nganga drove the nails in to show how much pain the person would be able to withstand and to show how supernaturally strong he will be. A classic BaCongo glass or "soul mirror porthole" has been embedded in the fetish stomach area and wrapped with twine. Cowry shells, bird feathers and an animal horn adorn the hardwood figure as further sources of empowerment. This is a well done unique piece.

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Dimensions: 20 inches tall x 4 inches deep x 5 inches wide.