Mask - Congo (No reserve price)

African and everyday objects, symbols of prestige. The central role of women in the political life of the Luba kingdom is manifested through the frequent presence of the feminine motif in Luba art. The latter, recognized for its prestige and quality, exerted notable influence on neighboring groups. This comb, adorned with a graceful protective effigy, symbolizes a figure who is an intermediary both politically and spiritually, a role assumed by women in Luba royalty. Her headdress, crowned by a wide band that revealed a shaved forehead, echoes the hairstyles worn by Luba women at the beginning of the 20th century. The secrets of the royalty (the bizila) were transmitted to women, who played a significant role as political intermediaries.