Punu-Lumbu ancestor statue - Gabon
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 160 - € 200
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Description from the seller
Origin. Gabon
Name of the tribe. Punu-Lumbu
Material. Wood
Dimension. 48 cm
Mode of shipment . Colissimo within 24-48h open
This piece is an anthropomorphic wooden statuette that displays the classic stylistic features of the Punu-Lumbu art of southern Gabon. These objects are deeply rooted in the ancestral and ritual traditions of this region.
The face (Punu-Lumbu typology): The face takes the heart-shaped form typical of this culture. The forehead is broad and rounded, the brow arches are emphasized, and the eyes are almond-shaped, half-closed, giving a serene and introspective expression. The mouth is small and delicately carved.
The hairstyle: The statue wears a pointed or helmet-shaped headdress (sometimes interpreted as a representation of traditional crest-like or ritual helmet hairstyles), which is a distinctive element of this sculpture.
The gesture: The pose is particularly symbolic. One hand is brought up to the chin or mouth, a gesture often interpreted as a sign of reflection, silence, or wisdom. The other hand rests on the lower abdomen (genital area), which is a common gesture in African sculpture, often symbolizing fertility, protection of the lineage, or humility.
Material and condition
The patina: A beautiful dark, oily, and glossy patina is observed across the entire body. This “usage patina” generally results from ritual handling, exposure to smoke, and the application of ritual substances over time. It testifies to the authenticity and age of the piece.
The presence of beads (white, black, red) around the neck is common on this type of object. These beads are an integral part of the piece’s adornment, used to “dress” it for ceremonies.
Base: The statuette rests on a circular pedestal carved from the same block of wood, typical of these cult figures intended to be placed on an altar or reliquary.
Contextual culture
These statuettes generally belong to the heritage of Gabonese initiation societies (such as Bwiti or other local secret societies). They have several possible functions:
Ancestor worship: They serve as receptacles or representations of the spirits of ancestors, ensuring the link between the living and the dead.
Protection and divination: They can be used to protect the village or family, or to assist diviners in their consultations.
Note on the appellation: Although you call it “Lumbo,” this piece is stylistically inseparable from Punu art. The Punu and Lumbu are neighboring ethnic groups in Gabon that share very close artistic traditions, notably these heart-shaped faces which are so recognizable.
It is a well-crafted piece, whose sobriety and the quality of the sculpture reflect the classic elegance of this Gabonese aesthetic.
Origin. Gabon
Name of the tribe. Punu-Lumbu
Material. Wood
Dimension. 48 cm
Mode of shipment . Colissimo within 24-48h open
This piece is an anthropomorphic wooden statuette that displays the classic stylistic features of the Punu-Lumbu art of southern Gabon. These objects are deeply rooted in the ancestral and ritual traditions of this region.
The face (Punu-Lumbu typology): The face takes the heart-shaped form typical of this culture. The forehead is broad and rounded, the brow arches are emphasized, and the eyes are almond-shaped, half-closed, giving a serene and introspective expression. The mouth is small and delicately carved.
The hairstyle: The statue wears a pointed or helmet-shaped headdress (sometimes interpreted as a representation of traditional crest-like or ritual helmet hairstyles), which is a distinctive element of this sculpture.
The gesture: The pose is particularly symbolic. One hand is brought up to the chin or mouth, a gesture often interpreted as a sign of reflection, silence, or wisdom. The other hand rests on the lower abdomen (genital area), which is a common gesture in African sculpture, often symbolizing fertility, protection of the lineage, or humility.
Material and condition
The patina: A beautiful dark, oily, and glossy patina is observed across the entire body. This “usage patina” generally results from ritual handling, exposure to smoke, and the application of ritual substances over time. It testifies to the authenticity and age of the piece.
The presence of beads (white, black, red) around the neck is common on this type of object. These beads are an integral part of the piece’s adornment, used to “dress” it for ceremonies.
Base: The statuette rests on a circular pedestal carved from the same block of wood, typical of these cult figures intended to be placed on an altar or reliquary.
Contextual culture
These statuettes generally belong to the heritage of Gabonese initiation societies (such as Bwiti or other local secret societies). They have several possible functions:
Ancestor worship: They serve as receptacles or representations of the spirits of ancestors, ensuring the link between the living and the dead.
Protection and divination: They can be used to protect the village or family, or to assist diviners in their consultations.
Note on the appellation: Although you call it “Lumbo,” this piece is stylistically inseparable from Punu art. The Punu and Lumbu are neighboring ethnic groups in Gabon that share very close artistic traditions, notably these heart-shaped faces which are so recognizable.
It is a well-crafted piece, whose sobriety and the quality of the sculpture reflect the classic elegance of this Gabonese aesthetic.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
Gabon
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Punu-Lumbu ancestor statue
Height
48 cm
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