Cup holder - Luba - DR Congo

Cup-Bearer – Luba Culture – Democratic Republic of the Congo

Originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this cup-bearer is emblematic of Luba culture, renowned for the symbolic richness of its sculptures and the finesse of its woodwork. Depicting a female figure kneeling or standing while supporting a cup, this piece is associated with divination rituals and royal practices. The woman embodies a central role as guardian of memory and knowledge, while the cup symbolizes the receptacle of spiritual power and ancestral knowledge. The sculpture is distinguished by the balance of proportions, the softness of volumes, and the care given to detail, revealing great artistic mastery.

In a contemporary interpretation, this piece is captivated by the nobility of its posture and the harmony of its lines, which give it a strong sculptural presence. The elegance of the figure and the simplicity of the composition engage in dialogue with the codes of contemporary design, highlighting its timeless character. At once a ritual object and a decorative work, this cup-bearer integrates perfectly into a contemporary interior, bringing an aesthetic, cultural and symbolic dimension."}{