Called Mankishi, figures such as this one
embody powers that serve the well being of the individual. These
figures serve as anti sorcery medicine and are procured from the
carver by the individual upon the threat of impending supernatural
danger. The Songye, formerly cannibals and warriors, believed
figures like this had a good influence on fertility and are regarded as
protection against hostile powers. Because they were carried on the
person and are frequently handled, figures like these have little or no
magical paraphernalia attached to them. The studs look like they were probably added 30 years after the piece was carved, so its an older piece with newer tacks.
Ex.Alfred Scheinberg, c. 1972 - Ex. Graven Images Ltd., New York 1991 and Ex. Christopher and Genevieve McConnell collection
Crack through right breast, abdomen and ankles/feet areas.
Height: 9 ⅚"
Width: 2 ½"
Depth: 2 ½"
