Zoomorphic Minkisi Figure
People: Kongo
Medium: Wood, nails, other various materials and objects
Like the n’konde figure, the Zoomorphic Minkisi figure is also an apotropaic power figure which was used by the Kongo people ward off evil. This particular figure represents Kozo, a two-headed dog who has a particular closeness to the spirit world and serves against forces of evil. Kozo is believed to be able to see in both front and back, or this world and the spirit world. This also relates to being able to determine good versus evil. This Minkisi figure also has an accumulation of nails driven into it. The accumulation of objects is another symbol of power. The nails and objects which were driven into the object also serve to activate it's power.
Medium: Wood, nails, other various materials and objects
Like the n’konde figure, the Zoomorphic Minkisi figure is also an apotropaic power figure which was used by the Kongo people ward off evil. This particular figure represents Kozo, a two-headed dog who has a particular closeness to the spirit world and serves against forces of evil. Kozo is believed to be able to see in both front and back, or this world and the spirit world. This also relates to being able to determine good versus evil. This Minkisi figure also has an accumulation of nails driven into it. The accumulation of objects is another symbol of power. The nails and objects which were driven into the object also serve to activate it's power.