Rattle / Nkisi

(UEM36398) Rattle-Nkisi is a spiritual object from the Congo peoples (Bakongo). It is carved as two male figures representing the spiritual divinities, Maundu and Malanda, placed back-to-back, protectors of the well-being of Bakongo society. Nkisi is a spiritual object that embodies healing and sacred components. The rod of the Rattle-Nkisi contains seeds or other materials for sound-making and is decorated with an ample wreath made of cut tree fruit, attached to the rod with strings. The rattle is used by diviners to communicate with the spirit world and to protect the community. A diviner would shake the seeds in the Rattle-Nkisi to receive spiritual guidance and information.

Material: Wood, plant fibre and tree fruit
Region: Bas-Congo, Bakima/Bakongo
Length: 37 cm.
Arrival: Donated to the Museum by Captain Hedemark, 1935.