< Previous Kongo Next >

Figure, nkisi
Kongo
early 20th century
Wood, metal, beads, cloth, string
H. 23 cm
TC 18

Devoid of surreal or abstract elements, this relatively simple figure is a masterpiece by virtue of the subtle treatment of its ears, hands and feet; moreover, the imperious facial expressions (anger, sarcasm, satisfaction), revealed from different angles, confirm nkisi as Supreme Being.

Provenance:
Kris M. Jefferson, New York, 1993