Congo N'kissi Nail Fetish Size:13in X 7in X 17in They were believed to encourage

They were believed to encourage fertility and ensure healthy offspring

The use of bronze

" who would care for the figure and guide its use in communal rituals

Mama Mask from Cameron (18th century)

and sometimes even stylized representations of animals or plants

Congo N'kissi Nail Fetish Size:13in X 7in X 17in They were believed to encourageNkissi Nail Fetish from Congo 19th century This Nkissi Nail Fetish from 19th century Congo is a powerful and evocative piece of African spiritual art. Carved from wood, this Nkissi figure, often referred to as a "power figure," is embedded with numerous nails and metal fragments, symbolizing its role as a potent protector and mediator in spiritual matters. The Nkissi is central to the religious practices of the Kongo people, serving as a vessel for