Nkisi are empowered objects; not always “human” in form. They are complex and often have multiple uses, so the “meaning” of one is meant to be ambiguous, mysterious and obscure. In general, they are thought to be portable graves containing spirits of the dead whose purpose is to serve as messenger between the worlds of the living and the dead. Their appearance is meant to be visually powerful, disturbing and anxiety producing; potentially dangerous objects. Once completed, they are considered to be unique with individual personalities, preferences, strengths and names. Their purposes are varied and include protection from evil, healing, harming enemies, ensuring successful pregnancy and communication with ancestors.

There are two main processes in making an nkisi: The construction of the object and the empowerment. Usually these are carried out by different specialists. The sculptural elements can include: staring eyes meant to frighten; an open mouth to speak the truth; a jutting jaw; an aggressive stance to ward off enemies, sometimes with arms akimbo, sometimes with one arm raised clutching a knife or a spear; an extended tongue to lick the penetrating pegs, spikes and blades; and corpse-like static body positions indicating that they are the empowered dead.

Sculptures with deformities such as withered or missing arms and legs or those having two heads, faces, or bodies, are meant to induce tension and fear.

For an extensive, scholarly discussion of Nkisi I suggest reading “African Vodun” by Susan Preston Blier. ISBN: 0-226-05858-1

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