Luba Kibango scepter top
€195.00
Luba “kibango” scepter finial – regalia / emblem of authority (Democratic Republic of the Congo, mid-20th century)
The kibango is a ceremonial scepter associated with the political and ritual world of the Luba (Baluba) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. More than a decorative object, it belongs to the regalia: prestigious insignia intended to identify and exalt the king, chiefs, and dignitaries within a complex hierarchy of power. Luba traditions regard their rulers as endowed with sacred status and supernatural powers capable of influencing social well-being and the fertility of the land. As descendants of founding ancestors, Luba leaders possess bulopwe, the “sacred blood,” which grants them the right to govern and authorizes them to own remarkable regalia (carved objects, metal, beads, furs, feathers, etc.).
In terms of use, these scepters and their finials are directly connected to institutional and ceremonial life: royal investiture rites are structured around the transfer of such insignia, considered to embody the very essence of kingship. Displayed during ceremonies, held in the hand, or presented as a visible marker of rank, the kibango functions as an immediately legible sign of authority while also expressing dynastic continuity and the legitimacy of its holder.
From a formal standpoint, such sculptures sometimes draw on silhouettes derived from utilitarian tools (three-pronged bow supports, paddle-shaped staffs), recalling an older economic foundation rooted in hunting and fishing, later transformed into refined emblems of command. Conceived to be seen “in use,” this scepter finial has a strong sculptural presence, enhanced by its patina and balanced volumes, underscoring its role as an insignia rather than a purely decorative object.
02616
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 31 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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Luba “kibango” scepter finial – regalia / emblem of authority (Democratic Republic of the Congo, mid-20th century)
The kibango is a ceremonial scepter associated with the political and ritual world of the Luba (Baluba) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. More than a decorative object, it belongs to the regalia: prestigious insignia intended to identify and exalt the king, chiefs, and dignitaries within a complex hierarchy of power. Luba traditions regard their rulers as endowed with sacred status and supernatural powers capable of influencing social well-being and the fertility of the land. As descendants of founding ancestors, Luba leaders possess bulopwe, the “sacred blood,” which grants them the right to govern and authorizes them to own remarkable regalia (carved objects, metal, beads, furs, feathers, etc.).
In terms of use, these scepters and their finials are directly connected to institutional and ceremonial life: royal investiture rites are structured around the transfer of such insignia, considered to embody the very essence of kingship. Displayed during ceremonies, held in the hand, or presented as a visible marker of rank, the kibango functions as an immediately legible sign of authority while also expressing dynastic continuity and the legitimacy of its holder.
From a formal standpoint, such sculptures sometimes draw on silhouettes derived from utilitarian tools (three-pronged bow supports, paddle-shaped staffs), recalling an older economic foundation rooted in hunting and fishing, later transformed into refined emblems of command. Conceived to be seen “in use,” this scepter finial has a strong sculptural presence, enhanced by its patina and balanced volumes, underscoring its role as an insignia rather than a purely decorative object.