Songye Female Figure Congo Rohner Collection

Among the Songye and other Bantu-speaking peoples of the greater Congo region, figures such as this—known as Nkishi—play a central role in spiritual and social life. They are used by ritual specialists or diviners known as Nganga, who activate the sculpture through prayers, secret formulas, and ritual substances to address illness, misfortune, protection, divination, and communication with the spirit world. The Nkishi functions as a conduit between human and spiritual realms, embodying accumulated power through use.

The surface of the figure shows a rich, aged patina, bearing evidence of handling, ritual engagement, and time, all of which contribute to its authenticity and spiritual presence. This sculpture stands as a compelling example of Songye ritual art—both visually striking and deeply rooted in the lived spiritual practices of Central Africa.

One shell eye is missing. See photos for more details.

Provenance: John R. Rohner Collection
Rohner, a museum curator for decades, aimed his practiced eye for authenticity to African art beginning in the early 1980s. His passion for this art only grew through the decades he built his collection––always with an aim for a broad and representative array of pieces. The collection appears in his book, Art Treasures from African Runners (2000, University Press of Colorado). 

Item #498 on pg. 205

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