Despite their appearance, the objects below were probably made to be sold.
 Staffs 1-2 |
 Fetish 56 |
Head 1 |
Staff 3 |
Staff 4 |
   BAKONGO Style Masks |
The catagories below have all been sold and are left here for educational and research purposes.
Figure 67 SOLD |
Animal Fetishes SOLD |
Style Fetishes 3 SOLD |
Photographs © Hamill Gallery
Fetishes were protective figures used by individuals, families, or whole communities to destroy or weaken evil spirits, prevent or cure illnesses, repel bad deeds, solemnize contracts or oath-taking, and decide arguments. A diviner or holy person would activate the statue, using magical substances. Fetishes gained power and were effective because people believed in them.
Small Nkondi figures were family owned and were used to protect the home, larger ones would protect an entire village. Covered with bags of magical herbs and studded with blades and nails, which, when driven in, activated its spiritual power. The mirror on the abdomen covers a filled cavity and reflected back evil spirits.
Some power figures take the form of a dog because of its ability to protect and to search out evil forces.
The Bakongo had masks and other objects that are less well known.
TRIBE |
OBJECT |
MJM02012017
