African Arts Gallery

Kongo African tribal art statuary is illustrated by various anthropomorphic sculptures laden with accessories. The presence of multiple nails has a defensive but also offensive bus. The bilongo elements supposed to confer, in Kongo thought, additional powers are placed in the abdominal cavity which is obstructed by a mirror. The face of the Nkondi reflects an aggressiveness reinforced by the open mouth and the large dilated pupils. br /> Among the Kongo, the nganga was responsible for the rituals by activating a spiritual force with an nkondi (pl. nkissi). The term nkisi was then used to designate the notions of "sacred" or "divine". The most influential category of "minkisi kongo" consisted of instruments to help regional chiefs enforce the law. A metal object was nailed to a wooden figure as soon as a decision was made, each nail evoking a particular case: parties in dispute, divorce, conflicts between communities... The nkondi thus wanted to ensure that the agreement before resolution of the conflict was well applied, and that individuals fear the consequences of their behavior. From the second half of the 20th century, minkisi minkondi were strategically placed along the coasts of the Loango kingdom to protect against European incursions. Among the most powerful, the Mangaaka was considered the "king" and "master", supreme arbiter of conflicts and protector of the community. "the Kongo gesture" Ed. Dapper Museum