Congolese Nkisi

Creator: Unknown Date of Creation: 2010s About 6 in. tall Materials: Wood, kaolin clay, metal nails, rope. Wooden statue covered with white kaolin clay. Nails have been inserted in the statue, which has a small bundle on its right side wrapped with cord. Minkisi (plural) are sacred vessels from Central Africa, traditionally Kongo ethnic regions of the Repubic of Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Angola. They are used for many diverse purposes. This nkisi may be a decorative tourist art form or an actual healing vessel made for a client in need. Acquired by Dr. Kyrah Malika Daniels in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.