The Ancestor Figure
Item
Accession Number
2020.6
Title
The Ancestor Figure
Ethnic Group
Luba
Subject
Figure|Altar|Central Africa
Country
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
20th century
Medium
Hard Wood|Cowrie Shells|Palm Oil
Format
H x W x D: 11 x 2.75 x 2.25 in. (27.94 x 6.985 x 5.715 cm)
Description
Standing male figure of highly-stylized form with cowrie shell eyes. This ancestor figure, which shows strong influence from the Hemba and Kusu, has an elaborate coiffure, the outline of a beard, cubistic arms and torso, and heavy legs and feet. It is carved from dense hardwood and shows a polished, dark surface.
