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