EStatue Kongo Nkishi Vili, DRC - Lot 106

EStatue Kongo Nkishi Vili, DRC Consecrated by the nganga, endowed with a magical charge (bilongo) composed of disparate elements in a receptacle sealed by a mirror, this statuette combines the distinctive elements of nkisi sculptures. The Vili produced a variety of nkisi sculptures for individual use, to which multiple virtues were attributed. In a face with naturalistic features, the glazed eyes, encircled by resin, symbolize clairvoyance. Eroded base. Satin black patina 37 x 8 cm The Vili, Lâri, Sûndi, Woyo, Bembé, Bwende, Yombé and Kôngo formed the Kôngo group, led by King Ntotela. Present along the Gabonese coast, the Vili broke away from the Kongo kingdom in the 16th century and the Loango kingdom became a powerful state. Now largely urbanized, they still belong to traditional associations, such as the Mbouiti or the Bieri, which depend on ancestor worship. Nganga sorcerers, who were also healers, were in charge of religious activities and mediation with the God called Nzambi through consecrated figures. Ref: "Kongo Power and Majesty" A. Lagamma ; Yale University Press ; https://www.art-tribal.fr/art-tribal/livres-art-africain/Le-Geste-kongo/19715.