277

African Nkondi Nail Fetish figure, 19th Century OR

Currency:USD Category:Antiques Start Price:700.00 USD Estimated At:1,800.00 - 2,000.00 USD
African Nkondi Nail Fetish figure, 19th Century OR
African Nkondi Nail Fetish figure, 19th Century OR early 20th Century. Nkondi (plural minkondi, zinkondi or nkondi with mi-concords, according to dialect) religious objects, frequently called “nail fetishes? because users often hammered nails into them, made by the Kongo people of West Central Africa. Nkondi are a subclass of minkisi that are considered aggressive. The name nkondi derives from the verb -konda, meaning “to hunt? and thus nkondi means “hunter? because they can hunt down and attack wrong-doers or witches, or in some cases, also enemies. Fetishes were protective figures used by individuals, families, or whole communities to destroy or weaken
evil spirits, prevent or cure illnesses, repel bad deeds, solemnize contracts or oath-taking, and decide
arguments. A diviner or holy person would activate the statue, using magical substances. Fetishes gained
power and were effective because people believed in them. (Size: See second photo for measurement.) Photos are part of the description representing the condition report. Pangaea Auctions urges Bidder's to view all attached photos.