AFRICAN NAIL FETISH (NKISI) This wooden statue is studded with metal spikes and nails. It was created by a sculptor and a Nganga (Medicine Man) of the Kongo tribe of West Africa. The glass covered cavity in the torso is filled with magical substances. This sculpture was believed to be alive, and held the presence of a powerful spirit which was used to influence politics and society. It's primary function was judicial and it was used to punish criminals and bring justice to those who were wronged