CONGOLESE LUBA FEMALE FIGURE OR ANCESTOR STATUE. The Luba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo have a matrilineal society, placing significant importance on the female figure in their kingdom and art. Patinated Luba sculpture with distinct features, including an intricate hairstyle, grooved diagonal bands separating the hairline from the forehead, coffee-bean shaped eyes, and some ornamental cicatrices (scarification marks) on the body (mostly the face). These figures are crafted to venerate feminine beauty and motherhood, representing the ideal of Luba concepts of female aesthetics. Luba statues are traditionally used in ancestor and spirit cults, as well as for initiation, medical, and divination purposes. - height: 13.75 inches. Estimate $210-300
