Power figure, early 20th century
Kongoexpand_more
Wood, natural fibers, glass, metal, undetermined materialsexpand_more
The Christina N. and Swan J. Turnblad Memorial Fundexpand_more 71.3
On View in Gallery 250expand_more
It looks like a man being punished or tortured. But to its Kongo makers and users, this figure was a container, empowered by a ritual specialist to house a specific spirit. The figure was consulted like a traditional chief to settle disputes and arrive at binding decisions. Each nail and blade, driven in to energize its powers, represents an issue resolved by its ritual authority.
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- Title
- Power figure
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- Artist
- Accession Number
- 71.3
- Curator Approved
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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