Bena Lulua maternity figure
€200.00
Forms and Aesthetics in African Sculpture
Proportions: The maternity statues of the Bena Lulua are generally characterized by slender proportions and precise sculptural details, with generously illustrated forms.
One of the most striking features of these statues is the presence of detailed scarifications on the mother's body. These geometric motifs are finely incised and add a rich textural dimension to the sculpture.
The mother is often depicted in a seated or standing posture, holding the child in a protective and nurturing manner. The child can be placed frontally; here, the child is carried on the back, which is rarer in maternity statuary.
Protection and Fertility
These statues symbolize fertility, maternity, and protection. The presence of the child on the statue emphasizes the importance of lineage and continuity.
Fertility Rites
These statues are often used in fertility rituals, invoking blessings for women desiring to conceive or for the protection of children.
Initiations
They can also play a role in initiation ceremonies, symbolizing the qualities expected of women in Bena Lulua society.
Veneration of Ancestors
The statues serve to honor the ancestors and to remind the importance of family ties and community continuity. They are also educational objects, transmitting cultural values and ideals of beauty and behavior to younger generations.
Aesthetic Value
Collectors appreciate these statues for their unique aesthetics, precise details, and the artisanal mastery that characterizes them. The scarifications and elegant forms are particularly prized.
The maternity statues of the Bena Lulua are much more than mere art objects. They reflect a rich cultural tradition, imbued with symbolism and significance. Their artistic beauty, combined with their profound cultural and ritual content, explains why they are so prized by collectors and admirers of African art around the world.
02512
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1960
- Size
- 22 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Excellent
Forms and Aesthetics in African Sculpture
Proportions: The maternity statues of the Bena Lulua are generally characterized by slender proportions and precise sculptural details, with generously illustrated forms.
One of the most striking features of these statues is the presence of detailed scarifications on the mother's body. These geometric motifs are finely incised and add a rich textural dimension to the sculpture.
The mother is often depicted in a seated or standing posture, holding the child in a protective and nurturing manner. The child can be placed frontally; here, the child is carried on the back, which is rarer in maternity statuary.
Protection and Fertility
These statues symbolize fertility, maternity, and protection. The presence of the child on the statue emphasizes the importance of lineage and continuity.
Fertility Rites
These statues are often used in fertility rituals, invoking blessings for women desiring to conceive or for the protection of children.
Initiations
They can also play a role in initiation ceremonies, symbolizing the qualities expected of women in Bena Lulua society.
Veneration of Ancestors
The statues serve to honor the ancestors and to remind the importance of family ties and community continuity. They are also educational objects, transmitting cultural values and ideals of beauty and behavior to younger generations.
Aesthetic Value
Collectors appreciate these statues for their unique aesthetics, precise details, and the artisanal mastery that characterizes them. The scarifications and elegant forms are particularly prized.
The maternity statues of the Bena Lulua are much more than mere art objects. They reflect a rich cultural tradition, imbued with symbolism and significance. Their artistic beauty, combined with their profound cultural and ritual content, explains why they are so prized by collectors and admirers of African art around the world.