The Luba / Kusu Nkisi Power Figure, Zaire #287

$ 795.00 $ 397.50

  • The Luba / Kusu Nkisi Power Figure, Zaire #287
  • The Luba / Kusu Peoples have a rich Tradition of Art and Culture. Fetishes are important objects in Luba / Kusu Culture. They are used to protect people from Evil Spirits
  • The Fetish, this Emblematic Object of Cultural Art
    Inspired by Songye Fetishes, this sculpted character would have been equipped with the magic charge introduced into the cavity at the top by the head. The triangular face with stretched features also recalls the Bangubangu style.
  • Satin patina, brown, encrusted with light pigments.br / The Kusu established on the left bank of the Lualaba borrowed the artistic traditions of the Luba and the Hemba settled in the South East of Zaire.
  • These Protective Nkisi / Fetishesi play the role of Mediator between Gods and Men. Large specimens are the collective property of an entire Village, while smaller figures belong to an individual or family.
  • In the 16th century, the Songyes migrated from the Shaba region to settle on the left bank of the Lualaba. Their Society is organized in a Patriarchal way. Their History is inseparable from that of the Luba to whom they are related through common Ancestors.
  •  The Songye People have created impressive statues with powerful features, which are often used during Secret Ceremonies, covered with accessories such as feathers, skin and a horn/ bundle/ bongo cavity full of Magical Charge.
  • Altars present in their Society, along with  Divination, made it possible to discover the Sorcerers and to shed light on the causes of the misfortunes that afflicted individuals.
  • Ca 1930-40