Punu-Lumbu ancestor statue - Gabon
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€ 1
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
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Description from the seller
Origin. Gabon
Tribe name. Punu-Lumbu
Material. Wood
Dimension. 48 cm
Shipping mode. Colissimo within 24-48h, please open
This piece is an anthropomorphic wooden statuette that presents the classic stylistic features of the Punu-Lumbu art from southern Gabon. These objects are deeply rooted in the ancestral and ritual traditions of this region.
Face (Punu-Lumbu typology): The face has the heart shape typical of this culture. The forehead is broad and raised, the eyebrow ridges are emphasized, and the almond-shaped, half-closed eyes give a serene and introspective expression. The mouth is small and delicately sculpted.
Hair: The statue wears a pointed or helmet-shaped headdress (sometimes interpreted as a representation of traditional coiffures shaped like a crest or ritual helmet), which is a distinctive element of this statuary.
Gestural stance: The pose is particularly symbolic. One hand is raised 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), a gesture common in African statuary, often symbolizing fertility, protection of the lineage, or humility.
Material and condition
Patina: A beautiful dark, oily, and glossy patina is observed over the entire body. This "usage patina" typically 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 object'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.
Cultural context
These statuettes generally belong to the heritage of Gabonese initiation societies (such as Bwiti or other local secret societies). They have several possible functions:
Ancestors worship: They serve as a receptacle or representation of the spirits of the 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 designation: Although you call it "Lumbo", this piece is stylistically inseparable from the Punu art. The Punu and Lumbu are neighboring ethnic groups in Gabon that share very close artistic traditions, notably these heart-shaped faces so recognizable.
It is a fine piece, whose sobriety and the quality of the sculpture closely reflect the classic elegance of this Gabonese aesthetic."
Origin. Gabon
Tribe name. Punu-Lumbu
Material. Wood
Dimension. 48 cm
Shipping mode. Colissimo within 24-48h, please open
This piece is an anthropomorphic wooden statuette that presents the classic stylistic features of the Punu-Lumbu art from southern Gabon. These objects are deeply rooted in the ancestral and ritual traditions of this region.
Face (Punu-Lumbu typology): The face has the heart shape typical of this culture. The forehead is broad and raised, the eyebrow ridges are emphasized, and the almond-shaped, half-closed eyes give a serene and introspective expression. The mouth is small and delicately sculpted.
Hair: The statue wears a pointed or helmet-shaped headdress (sometimes interpreted as a representation of traditional coiffures shaped like a crest or ritual helmet), which is a distinctive element of this statuary.
Gestural stance: The pose is particularly symbolic. One hand is raised 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), a gesture common in African statuary, often symbolizing fertility, protection of the lineage, or humility.
Material and condition
Patina: A beautiful dark, oily, and glossy patina is observed over the entire body. This "usage patina" typically 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 object'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.
Cultural context
These statuettes generally belong to the heritage of Gabonese initiation societies (such as Bwiti or other local secret societies). They have several possible functions:
Ancestors worship: They serve as a receptacle or representation of the spirits of the 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 designation: Although you call it "Lumbo", this piece is stylistically inseparable from the Punu art. The Punu and Lumbu are neighboring ethnic groups in Gabon that share very close artistic traditions, notably these heart-shaped faces so recognizable.
It is a fine piece, whose sobriety and the quality of the sculpture closely 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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