Power Figure (Nkishi)
Brooklyn Museum photograph
Object Label
The Tetela and the Songye are closely related groups who make figures for personal religious rituals. Carving styles and materials for these figures are as diverse as their individual functions. A figure may be used to cure illness, bring wealth, or ensure good hunting. This figure includes fur wrapped tightly around its body and a horn from an antelope projecting from its head.
Caption
Tetela. Power Figure (Nkishi), early 20th century. Wood, fur, hide, fiber, horn, 17 in. (43.2 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Fernandez Arman to the Jennie Simpson Educational Collection of African Art, 72.102.4. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Culture
Title
Power Figure (Nkishi)
Date
early 20th century
Geography
Place made: Maniema Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium
Wood, fur, hide, fiber, horn
Classification
Dimensions
17 in. (43.2 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Fernandez Arman to the Jennie Simpson Educational Collection of African Art
Accession Number
72.102.4
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