Standing female figure · D. R. Congo, Luba · ID: 3033511
Description
wood, slightly shiny reddish brown patina with traces of black paint, raised scarification marks on the abdomen, cross-shaped tattoo on the cheeks, three comb-shaped lobes forming the coiffure, slightly dam., paint rubbed off, minor missing parts at the base, on pedestal;
the sculptural carving of the Luba can be divided in two different groups: ritual objects, like ancestor figures, and emblems of power, like figural stools or female bowl bearing figures. The hole on top of the head served for insertion of magical mass, which rather refers to a function as power figure. The gesture with the hands up to the breasts refers to the life- and nourishment-giving role of women in Luba society.
Comparing literature
Roberts, Mary Nooter, Memory, New York 1996, p. 42 Agthe, Johanna, Luba Hemba, Frankfurt am Main 1983, ill. 9 f.