Each nkisi combines a wide variety of objects to suggest power and strength. This statuette is called Bumba Mazi, which means "He Who Brings Wealth." A cluster of ingredients covers its head, including the claws of a large cat and a small mirror. The necklaces around its neck are made of small dried fruits, seashells, gazelle horns, sticks and knotted string. The small blue fabric was wrapped around the body. The soothsayer would remove the fabric before consulting the statuette.
Magic nkisi statuette
Africa, Angola
I am a magic nkisi statuette from the lands at the mouth of the Congo River. Nkisis have all sorts of powers. Some of them are thought to be able to catch thieves, while others are consulted to settle conflicts between lovers.
- Would you say that I am more human or more animal?
- Has any particular detail caught your attention?
- What words can you think of to describe my expression?
Magic nkisi statuette
Africa, Angola
Prior to 1933
Wood, cotton, seashell, horn, metal, mirror, snail shell, seeds, walnuts, fruit, pigments
38.7 x 27.2 x 30 cm
15.2 x 10.7 x 11.8 in
© quai Branly Museum,
photo by Patrick Gries