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Songye statues are not seen as symbols of power, but
rather as something that can protect or heal, or can be used for
therapeutic reasons. They are objects imbued with power or
magical figures known as mankishi (or nkishi).
A statue's value lies not in its appearance but in the magic
ingredients (bishima) that are hidden in its stomach or
horns. These ingredients, prepared by the nganga or ritual
specialist using animal, vegetable or mineral sources, fall into
two categories: aggressive ones that fight against the sources
of evil, and ingredients that have a beneficial effect on the
patient. The sculptor is responsible only for producing the
frame of the statue; it must be activated by the nganga.
This great, old Songye power figure measures 18 1/2" in height.
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