Power Figure (Nkishi)
Arts of Africa
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.
CULTURE
Tetela
MEDIUM
Wood, fur, hide, fiber, horn
DATES
early 20th century
DIMENSIONS
17 in. (43.2 cm) (show scale)
COLLECTIONS
Arts of Africa
ACCESSION NUMBER
72.102.4
CREDIT LINE
Gift of Fernandez Arman to the Jennie Simpson Educational Collection of African Art
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION
Human figure completely covered except for head. Body fully enveloped with fur, hide and bound in rope. Head has conical headdress.
EXHIBITIONS
MUSEUM LOCATION
This item is not on view
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. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 72.102.4_bw.jpg)
IMAGE
overall, 72.102.4_bw.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph
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RIGHTS STATEMENT
Creative Commons-BY
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