African Two-Headed Bakongo Nikisi Sculpture

Description

African Two-Headed Bakongo Nikisi Sculpture.
Description
Two-Headed Nikisi Figure, from the Bacongo people, Democratic Republic of Congo . Made of wood, pigments, fabric, glass nails and natural elements.
A nikisi is loosely translated as a "spirit" yet it is represented as a container of sacred substances which are activated by supernatural forces that can be summoned into the physical world. This nkisi has a container for such elements in its torso. The glass covering represents the otherworldly use of its contents.
The representation of two heads shows that the nkisi can see into the world of spirits as well as seeing the living world.
Dimensions
25" x 8" x 8"
Good aged condition with mild patina and signs of handling. Minor desiccation cracks, insect damage.