The Nsapo Nsapo are a small ethnic group living in the central south of Congo. They are stylistically influenced by the Songye, of whom they once were a subgroup, as well as by the Luba among others. Such power figures called ‘Nkisi’ were used in the south of Congo as protection from illnesses, as guardians against witchcraft, for the administration of justice, for divination and soothsaying. ‘Magic material’ such as antelope horns (placed on the head), as a belt or in cavities on the abdomen, is placed in the figures in order to activate their strength.
This erect female ‘Nkisi’ figure of the Nsapo Nsapo is carved of hard, heavy wood and dyed black. The relatively big head bears a small antelope horn inserted in the apex of the head as ‘magical material’. The face looks relaxed and introverted, with a flat nose and a slightly protruding mouth in the shape of horizontal '8'. Worn around the neck is a necklace made of big old white and blue glass pearls. The arms are bent and hang free by the sides. Both hands rest on the abdomen - as is typical for all ‘Nkisi-figures' - and near the navel a round cavity is to be found - it, too, for ‘magical material’ (gone missing).
Overall a perfectly preserved ‘Nkisi’ figure standing atop a continuously carved plinth on slightly bent long legs. In places - shiny, old usage patina. No appreciable damage. ‘Nkisi’ figures of the Nsapo Nsapo are a rarity! Height: 52 cm; first third of the 20th century. (ME)

Provenance:
Rut Van Caelenbergh Collection, Brussels; Austrian Private Collection.

Lit.:
'100 peoples of Zaire and their sculpture' by Marc L. Felix, p. 134, 135.