Ritual urn with Nkisi lid. Vili people, Kongo region, Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire). 20th century

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By Templum Fine Art Auctions

Feb 25, 2026

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• Lot Description
  Wood, glass, and wicker. Height: 79 cm; width: 25 cm; weight: 5.5 kg. A ritual urn belonging to the Vili nkisi tradition, conceived as an object for individual use endowed with multiple protective and therapeutic virtues. Realistically and meticulously crafted, this sculpture possesses a strong magical charge (bilongo), originally contained within a ventral receptacle sealed by a mirror, a characteristic element that acts as an interface between the visible and invisible worlds, symbolizing clairvoyance and the capacity for spiritual vision. The glazed eyes reinforce this supernatural dimension, underscoring the nkisi's role as a mediator between humans, spirits, and ancestors. This type of work, akin to court art due to its formal and symbolic refinement, was intended for a social and ritual elite. The piece exhibits erosion and desiccation cracks consistent with its age and use. The Vili were part of the larger Kongo group—along with the Lari, Sundi, Woyo, Bembé, Bwende, and Yombé—ruled by King Ntotela, whose kingdom reached its zenith in the 16th century thanks to the ivory and copper trade and the slave trade. From that period onward, the Vili separated from the Kongo kingdom and founded the powerful kingdom of Loango along the Atlantic coast. Although now largely urbanized, they long maintained traditional associations linked to ancestor worship, such as the Mbouiti and the Bieri, within which these types of nkisi urns played a central role. From a former German collection, this piece is a significant testament to Kongo ritual statuary and their complex worldview. Lot in international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipping: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required.
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