Accession Number
1997/1.352

Title
Power figure (nkisi kozo)

Artist(s)
Kongo

Artist Nationality
Kongo (culture or style)

Object Creation Date
20th century

Medium & Support
carved wood, cord and traces of pigment

Dimensions
20 13/16 in x 10 in x 4 13/16 in (52.8 cm x 25.4 cm x 12.2 cm)

Credit Line
Gift of Dr. James and Vivian Curtis

Subject matter
Nkisi is a generic term for a class of power objects. These objects are employed as solutions to social and physical problems. They are ritually charged objects, able to facilitate movement of spirits between differnet points of existence. Animals, such as crocodiles, are assoicated with spirits that can move this way.

Physical Description
Carved wooden figure of a crocodile. A carved wooden bell is attached to the figures neck. The face (eyes, nose, and mouth) are detailed.

Primary Object Classification
Sculpture

Collection Area
African

Rights
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Keywords
Animals
Figures
Reptiles and amphibians
crocodiles
divination objects
healing