Nail and Blade Oath-Taking Figure, Nkisi nkondi, Kongo, Coastal Zaire, 19th century Not all African art objects are used in masquerades. Many objects are used for other purposes such as settling disputes, teaching people, marking an individual's status in society, or everyday uses such as entertainment or cooking. This figure is called a nail and blade oath-taking figure or nkisi nkondi. It was made by the Kongo people of Coastal Zaire. It was used during difficult times such as drought, famine, or personal arguments. The figure's stance, hands on hips and feet apart, is meant to demonstrate the aggressive and powerful force of the object. It stands ready to take on any dispute. People who have an argument to resolve seek the assistance of a ritual expert, who helps them to settle their problems. To seal the new agreement, a nail or blade is inserted into the figure. (This practice can be compared to our signing contracts or shaking hands to formalize an agreement.) The many pieces of metal protruding from this statue represent different resolutions. If the agreement is broken then the nail or blade might be removed. The mirror on the stomach of the oath-taking figure has many possible interpretations. It may scare away or capture evil spirits. It may represent a passage way to the spirit world. The open mouth and the bell may represent the figure's ability to communicate with people in the living world. After an oath-taking image has been carved, ritual materials are applied to the figure by a ritual expert. These ritual materials give the figure its power. Before this oath-taking figure was brought to the museum, the ritual materials were removed. For the Kongo people the oath-taking figure is a forceful and living presence. The figure is considered so powerful that only one is made for each village. It is often kept in a special shrine outside of the village so as not to endanger the inhabitants with its great power. Generally, only a ritual expert is allowed to touch the figure. PART 2-PAGE 5 OF 9
SLIDE 8
HOW WAS THIS OBJECT USED? WHAT PURPOSE DID IT SERVE?
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