BAKONGO ANIMAL FETISHES, CONGO

Click on a name to see a larger image and other views.

 

Dog Fetish 1, 29", $2000

 

Dog Fetish 1, 29", $2000

 

Dog Fetish 5, 15", $500

 

Dog Fetish 5, 15", $500

 

Dog Fetish 6, 26", $450

 

Dog Fetish 6, 26", $450

Dog Fetish 7, 16", $250

 

Dog Fetish 7, 16", $250

 

Dog Fetish 11, 29", $1000

 

Dog Fetish 11, 29", $1000

 

Dog Fetish 12, 25", $1000

  

Dog Fetish 12, 25", $1000

Dog Fetish 13, 22", $500

Dog Fetish 13, 22", $500

  

Dog Fetish 14, 22.5", $600

Dog Fetish 14, 22.5", $600


The figures below have been sold and are left here for reference and educational purposes.

Dog Fetish 2, SOLD

Dog Fetish 3, 26", $600

 

Dog Fetish 4, SOLD

 

Dog Fetish 8, 38", $1000

Dog Fetish 9, SOLD 

  

Dog Fetish 10, 22", $600

Photographs © Tim Hamill

BAKONGO, DOG NAIL FETISHES, Democratic Republic of Congo

Fetishes were protective figures used by individuals, families, or whole communities to destroy or weaken evil spirits, prevent or cure illnesses, repel bad deeds, solemnize contracts or oath-taking. and decide arguments. A diviner or holy person would activate the statue, using magical substances. Fetishes gained power and were effective because people believed in them.

These power figures take the form of a dog, because of its ability to protect and to search out evil forces. The nails or blades, when driven in, activated its spiritual power, offering protection or serving oath-taking or trial purposes. Small figures were family owned and were used to protect the home, larger ones would protect an entire village.

Old Bakongo fetishes are very rare. Despite their appearance, most of our figures show no evidence of age or use and were probably made to be sold.

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