This ancestor or power figure (nkisi) from the Kusu people of the Maniema region in the eastern DR Congo. The Kusu live on the left bank of the Lualaba River and share deep historical ties with neighboring groups like the Songye, Luba, and Hemba. Their art style beautifully blends these traditions. Sculptures like this are used to honor highly influential deceased clan leaders or chiefs to protect the village and reinforce kinship lines. The power and magic rests in the hollow at the top of the head (the cavity seen inside the crown of this figure) to insert bishimba, a powerful magical mixture made of medicinal roots, clay, and animal materials. This charges the object with protective spiritual energy. Quintessential markers of elite Kusu craftsmanship are the flat-topped angular hairstyle, elongated torso, coffee-bean eyes, and hands split symmetrically over a braided and sectioned multi-row beard. Condition: Slightly worn with minor abrasions suffered during handling. Dimensions: 9 x 3 x 3 inches.