Male fertility figure — Kissi, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. X18

Description

This statuette comes from the prefecture of Kissidougou in Guinea, a forested and mountainous region in the heart of Forested Guinea. The prefecture of Kissidougou, whose name derives from the Kissi ethnic group, is known for its rich culture and ancient artistic traditions. The Kissi, a people established for centuries in this region, are distinguished by strong spirituality and an intimate relationship with their ancestors, materialised in particular through stone sculptures called “pomis” or “nomoli”. These sculptures are often discovered in fields or archaeological sites, sometimes buried, and play an important role in local spiritual practices. The Kissi use these figures as sacred objects associated with fertility, family protection and lineage continuity. This region, marked by traditional agricultural practices and proximity to the tropical forest, is also a centre for the preservation of ancestral customs, including the veneration of ancestors and protective spirits.
The stone statuette represents a man standing, with his hands firmly holding a phallic object. This symbolic detail highlights the theme of virility and fertility, recurring subjects in Kissi ritual art. The facial features are characteristic: the eyes are large and slightly raised, the nose is prominent and the mouth is open, creating an intense, almost meditative expression. This style is typical of Kissi art, which gives particular importance to expressive features in order to emphasise the spiritual energy of the figure. The slightly elongated head also appears marked by traces of natural wear, a sign of handling or prolonged contact, indicating that this statuette was probably used in rituals over a long period. The stone patina, with visible striations and scratches, reveals the age of the piece and the attention to detail of the craftsman who shaped it.
The stone used, probably a local variety of serpentine or soft rock, has a dark colour and smooth patina, which may result from prolonged ritual use.
This statuette symbolises several fundamental aspects of Kissi spirituality and beliefs. The representation of a male figure in a state of fertility and concentration suggests a link with rites of fertility and virility. In Kissi culture, fertility is considered an essential blessing for the survival of the lineage and the prosperity of the community. Sculptures representing virility are therefore often used as protective talismans or sacred objects to invoke the blessing of the ancestors upon families and agricultural crops.

Technical details

Availability

Unavailable

Type of piece

Statuette

Category

Statues

Ethnic group

Kissi

Country

Guinée

Materials

stone

Dimensions

H 17 × W 6,5 × D 6,5 cm

Weight

0,708 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

X18