Luba ancestor statue - Baluba - DR Congo

Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Baluba
Material. Wood
Dimension. 45 cm
Mode of shipment. Colissimo within 24-48h; open.

Luba decorative sculpture

The sculpture consists of a human figure resting on the back of a quadruped animal. The human figure shows pronounced abdominal scarifications and wears a necklace made of red beads.
Style and Details: The face of the figure features naturalistic traits typical of Luba style, with an elaborated hairstyle visible from different angles.
Symbolism: In Luba art, figures standing on animals (often leopards or symbolic zoomorphic figures) are frequently associated with power, prestige, and chieftainships. They can serve as prestige objects or memory supports related to secret societies such as the Bambudye society, which uses sculpted objects to convey esoteric and historical knowledge.
This piece embodies the refined aesthetics and mastery of woodworking characteristic of Luba artists, renowned for the finesse of their portraits and their ability to integrate complex symbolic elements into balanced forms.