Premier Art – Kongo Crucifix – Kongo Christ Sculpture – Nkangi Kiditu - African Art

Second half of the 20th century, circa 1960 Africa – Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kongo region Private collection, South of France Rare Christ on the cross known as Nkangi Kiditu, carved in blackened hardwood, a testament to the syncretic religious productions of Kongo culture. Kongo crucifixes originate from the first contacts between the Kongo kingdoms and Portuguese missionaries at the end of the 16th century. These exchanges gave rise to a unique form of religious art, where the figure of Christ is interpreted according to local artistic and spiritual codes. Thus, these Kongo crucifixes, far from simple objects of devotion, are powerful artifacts, blending Christianity and traditional African beliefs. The Christ Nkangi Kiditu embodies this fusion: much more than a religious symbol, it is an object of spiritual mediation, used in oath rites, protection cults, community justice, and funerary rituals. Christ, here depicted in pain, exhibits an emaciated body with protruding ribs, his arms outstretched and raised grasping the crossbar of the cross. The stylized face, with large almond-shaped eyes, as well as the graphic and taut treatment of the torso and legs, directly refer to the aesthetic codes specific to Kongo statuary. The deep black patina, marked by time, with beautiful old wear and traces of handling, reinforces the visual and symbolic power of this piece. Note: one arm has been restored, the object having been damaged by fire (visible in the photos), but this in no way detracts from the plastic and spiritual strength of the whole. Dimensions: Height: 42 cm Width: 10.5 cm ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY!