Power figure (Nkisi N'kondi: Mangaaka)

Nkisi are spirits, or an object that a spirit inhabits. It is frequently applied to a variety of objects used throughout the Congo Basin in Central Africa that are believed to contain spiritual powers or spirits. This particular one is meant to confront the viewer with its power, helping maintain justice and order in the Yombe region north of the lower Congo river. It would also fend off evil and support the social order at a time of traumatic upheaval caused by the scramble for Africa by European powers.