Most Congo natives adhere to age-old tradition for problem solving. They place their trust in the powers of the fetish to aid them during times of need. The small wooden fetish used for personal use is known as Nkisi. Larger carved figures used for collective ceremonies between family members or whole villagers are called Nknode. Each is believed to have supernatural powers brought about through the magical workings of the village Nganga (fetishtist). The Nganga creates and activates this power by placing medicines such as animal or human parts, clay, plants and other indigenous items around and inside the object. The wood that is used is special unto itself. The fetish may be called upon to deal with issues concerning; disease, protection, sex or good fortune in general. It is also involved in tribal commitments whereas the fetish acts as a witness to the promise made for it is all seeing and knowing. The Lega, residing in the Eastern Congo region are practitioners of the supernatural, placing their faith in the Nkonde. 

For any number of reasons the tribe can be faced with a low population or a higher than normal infant mortality rate. During such times, the Lega led by high ranking members of their Bwami society, a number of ceremonial rituals will be held in hopes of changing the tribe’s fate. Fetishes such as the one on display will be brought out and worshiped. This large fertility fetish, standing 32 inches tall on a tripodal leg base, features 9 signature Lega masks that protrude from a single wooden stem. Going round the stalk, the masks are grouped in threes, each separated by a flattened wood steak. The size of the Lega masks increase with their downward decent. The wide circular eyes, slender elongated noses and absent mouths fill each kaolin powdered face. The top tapered end of this structure which serves as the head has a neck bound by heavy twine that extends upward to two bands of red material. This is mostly covered by dozens of loose dangling twisted strands of fiber that mimic hair. This is a very important piece used to solve any fertility issues that the village might have. The Lega are not known for creating large ritual items. This is one of their exceptions.

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Dimensions: 32 inches tall x 9 inches deep x 9 inches across.

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