This is a Songye Nkishi power figure from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The statue depicts a male figure, standing upright on a solid base. The posture is powerful: the arms rest firmly against the torso and the hands point toward the abdomen, where a small, round charge (bishimba, a spiritual substance) is placed.
The face is expressive and geometrically stylized, with a high nose, carved eyes, and a strikingly elongated neck. The sculpture is dark in color with reddish-brown accents, giving it an intense, almost glowing character. Traces of use and patina show that this object was more than decorative—it was intended to carry spiritual power and offer protection or guidance.
The large feet and compact proportions give the figure a solid, almost immovable appearance.
Provenance:
Maria Wyss (1924-1992), Basel, Switzerland
Helmut (1931-2021) & Marianne Zimmer Collection, Zurich, Switzerland
David Serra – Fine Tribal Art, Barcelona, Spain (2023)
Philippe Vanderpoorten Collection, Antwerp, Belgium (2025)
Publications:
Expo cat.: “Imaginaire Tribal 2023”, Barcelona: David Serra – Fine Tribal Art, 2023:36-39
Exhibitions:
Paris, France: “Imaginaire Tribal 2023” during: “Parcours des Mondes 2023”, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, David Serra – Fine Tribal Art, 5-10 September 2023
Brussels, Belgium: “Civilizations Brussels Art Fair”, 22-26 January 2025 (David Serra)
