Luba ancestor statue - DR Congo
09
days
19
hours
52
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03
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Baluba
Material. Wood
Dimension. 28 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h open
This decorative piece is a emblematic work of Luba art, a people located mainly in the south-east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is a cup-bearer (often called mboko), one of the most sacred and refined objects in their culture.
The cup-bearer is not a simple decorative object. In Luba culture, it plays a central role in divination and kingship:
Sacred vessel: The cup typically contained kaolin (sacred white clay), symbolizing purity, clairvoyance, and the spirit world.
Spiritual link: It was used in rituals to consult ancestors or to mark the investiture of a chief. Kaolin was applied to the bodies of participants to invoke spiritual protection.
Luba aesthetics are famous for their softness and balance. Here are several typical elements found:
The posture: The female figure is depicted kneeling or seated with legs crossed, a position of respect and devotion.
The face: The eyes are often in “coffee grain” shape (heavy, half-closed eyelids), evoking introspection, calm, and connection with the beyond. The forehead is high and clear, a sign of intellect.
The headdress: A complex and structured hairstyle is observed, reflecting the high social status of the woman depicted. Among the Luba, the hairstyle was a true form of architectural hairdressing.
In Luba thought, the woman is considered the receptacle of the soul and of the secrets of kingship.
The body as temple: The scarifications (though less visible in this precise photo, they are often present on the abdomen and back) are regarded as marks of civilization and beauty.
Political role: Only the female body was deemed strong enough to contain the spirit of a deceased king. That is why most Luba symbols of power (thrones, cup-bearers, scepters) are female representations.
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Baluba
Material. Wood
Dimension. 28 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h open
This decorative piece is a emblematic work of Luba art, a people located mainly in the south-east of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is a cup-bearer (often called mboko), one of the most sacred and refined objects in their culture.
The cup-bearer is not a simple decorative object. In Luba culture, it plays a central role in divination and kingship:
Sacred vessel: The cup typically contained kaolin (sacred white clay), symbolizing purity, clairvoyance, and the spirit world.
Spiritual link: It was used in rituals to consult ancestors or to mark the investiture of a chief. Kaolin was applied to the bodies of participants to invoke spiritual protection.
Luba aesthetics are famous for their softness and balance. Here are several typical elements found:
The posture: The female figure is depicted kneeling or seated with legs crossed, a position of respect and devotion.
The face: The eyes are often in “coffee grain” shape (heavy, half-closed eyelids), evoking introspection, calm, and connection with the beyond. The forehead is high and clear, a sign of intellect.
The headdress: A complex and structured hairstyle is observed, reflecting the high social status of the woman depicted. Among the Luba, the hairstyle was a true form of architectural hairdressing.
In Luba thought, the woman is considered the receptacle of the soul and of the secrets of kingship.
The body as temple: The scarifications (though less visible in this precise photo, they are often present on the abdomen and back) are regarded as marks of civilization and beauty.
Political role: Only the female body was deemed strong enough to contain the spirit of a deceased king. That is why most Luba symbols of power (thrones, cup-bearers, scepters) are female representations.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Luba ancestor statue
Height
28 cm
Sold by
