A SONGYE MAGICAL FIGURE, nkishi, standing with the arms carved free of the body and the large hands placed on the abdomen which has a pierced navel, the triangular-shaped face with curved brows and curved mouth above pointed chin, the coiffure carved as four projections with chevrons on the outer sides, a strand of cylindrical blue glass beads about the neck, the large feet on high base, blackened head, remains of crusty patina about the body, termite erosion to base and legs

Details

A SONGYE MAGICAL FIGURE, nkishi, standing with the arms carved free of the body and the large hands placed on the abdomen which has a pierced navel, the triangular-shaped face with curved brows and curved mouth above pointed chin, the coiffure carved as four projections with chevrons on the outer sides, a strand of cylindrical blue glass beads about the neck, the large feet on high base, blackened head, remains of crusty patina about the body, termite erosion to base and legs
71cm. high

Lot Essay

Dunja Hersak (1986, pp.1180169) discusses the functions of large Songye figures, which were carved and activated to serve the well-being of the community. In most cases they function specifically as anti-sorcery medicine which can be appropriated by villagers or chiefs and serve a benign end.

More from Tribal Art

View All