Description:

Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, probably Yombe, mid 20th century. Tall Nkonde figure studded with iron blades, specific to the Vili and Woyo. Tall figures such as this were used to protect villagers and clans from the evil spirits of witchcraft, enabling the victim to obtain justice for an act of witchcraft. The victim would drive a nail or iron blade into the statue, thus wounding the spirit it represents. Figures such as this example are also used to expose thieves. This statue shows a standing figure with a raised right arm, designed to hold a spear or knife. The facial features are finally carved, with the almond shaped eyes in deep sockets seeing into the magical occult region. The wrapping around the neck may hold a magic charge. The protruding rectangular receptacle with the glass or mirrored front set in the umbilical region also holds a magical charge to further empower the statue. ~32 1/2"T

All items in this auction are legal to buy/sell under U.S. statute covering cultural patrimony per United States Code 2600, CHAPTER 14 -- CONVENTION ON CULTURAL PROPERTY, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

  • Condition: Expected wear. Appears excellent to near choice.

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Shipping

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April 16, 2014 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000