Large Power Figure with Raised Fist (Nkisi Nkondi)

The raised fist is the classic gesture of the nkondi, marking the figure as a hunter of wrongdoers. The dense field of nails and blades records the petitions made during its active life, each an invocation by the nganga. The coiled rope at the neck is a binding device that reinforces the figure’s judicial power over those who break the law.

The rectangular mirror or resin box on the abdomen was the main receptacle for the bilongo; its reflective surface looks into the ancestral realm and lets the figure detect unseen threats. The wide, painted eyes and open mouth give an alert and confrontational presence.

A powerful upright figure. The individual, watchful face, with heavy brows, wide eyes painted white with black pupils and carved teeth, beneath a close-fitting cap, contrasts with the raw intensity of the nailed body. The tightly coiled rope collar forms a band of texture between the calm head and the aggressive ironwork, and the raised fist gives strong vertical energy. The warm, even patina of the legs, feet and base shows good handling and age.

Note. The term ‘big nkisi’ is used here for a large figure of the standard nkondi type. The figure does not show the specific features of the mangaaka group, such as arms akimbo, a goatee and semicircular inlaid eyes.