Superb "Studded Fetish" from the Kongo people, Congo, wooden sculpture, Nkisi Nkonde, raised hand. Vintage/antique item from the 30s-60s, the abdominal cavity as well as the eyes are sealed with small intact glass panes, behind which a white substance (ritual powder) and black materials for the eyes can be distinguished. This presence, along with the two fabric bindings wrapped around its hips and neck, likely holding herbs and other substances, and which are anointed and covered with coagulated matter, suggest that the object may have been used in traditional rituals and therefore is not merely a tourist attraction. The fact that the glass panes are still sealed indicates that it has not been "deactivated," unlike many objects of this style exported, and the presence of bilongo implies that the object has retained its magical charge. The sculpture is of quite nice workmanship, although less detailed than 19th-century fetishes. The wood shows a natural, cracked, and dusty patina, a testament to its age. The rare preservation of the bilongo enhances the ethnographic interest of this specimen. It measures 29.5cm in height, 16-17cm in width, and about 12cm in depth with the nails. It is in very good overall condition, with a few discreet minor accidents on the wood, wear of the patina, and a harmonious ensemble. A very beautiful piece for the discerning collector. Weighs approximately 700gr.