Luba figurative plank
Femininity in the Baluba tradition
This African Luba sculpture is reminiscent of the figurative divinatory boards used by soothsayers. This piece, however, plays more of a regalia role, witnessing the social status of its original owner. We find in front of the decorated board (with pearls on the upper part) a female character. The woman indeed occupies a preponderant place in the Luba culture. There are beautiful scarifications on the belly like those worn by women as seen in the contextual photo. Bead bracelets are still present and may have been placed later than the sculpture itself.
01893
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 37 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, beads
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal Art Collection Netherlands
- Condition
- Vintage
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Femininity in the Baluba tradition
This African Luba sculpture is reminiscent of the figurative divinatory boards used by soothsayers. This piece, however, plays more of a regalia role, witnessing the social status of its original owner. We find in front of the decorated board (with pearls on the upper part) a female character. The woman indeed occupies a preponderant place in the Luba culture. There are beautiful scarifications on the belly like those worn by women as seen in the contextual photo. Bead bracelets are still present and may have been placed later than the sculpture itself.