Standing Wooden Figure
Item
Accession Number
2024.47.
Title
Standing Wooden Figure
Ethnic Group
Luba
Subject
Figure|Ritual|Central Africa
Country
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
Patinated wood
Format
H x W x D: 10 1/2 in x 2 1/2 in x 2 1/2 in (26.67 cm x 6.35 cm x 6.35 cm)
Description
Standing, wooden female figure with clear characteristics of the Luba style, such as the highly polished wooden surface, broad and round forehead, and thinly inceside facial features. The figure may be a standing Mboko, or diviner. The Mboko were used during ceremonies regarding the induction of a new chief. Natural materials of medicinal value would be packed within the figure, as to the Luba, women were believed to have a strong connection to the spirit world.
Type
Female Figurine