Luba statuette, Democratic Republic of the Congo - Wood with sooty patina - Height 14 cm

Late 19th century, early 20th century - Provenance Private collection, France

Bust statuettes like this one were used by the Luba, the Kusu, the Hemba, the Songye...

The deep oozing patina testifies to its widespread use. Luba art profusely illustrates the female body. She is there to transmit life and protect it.

"Sculpting one's entire body, bust or face, is an act of the highest spirituality, for through its representation are expressed the beliefs and history of a people. Her body speaks to the world, modulates the rhythms of nature, announces incantatory chants, unveils the words of the beyond."

Christiane Falgayrettes-Leveau

Retour De Voyage added this piece into this very specific selection of African Primitiv art.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)