LUBA COUPLES STOOL 43, Dem. Rep. Congo

Photographs © Tim Hamill

LUBA, STOOL 43, 12", $300, SOLD, DRC

Most Luba art relates to kings and important chiefs, who defined their power by the display of prestige objects during important ceremonies. Stools were among the most important of these objects. The ruler was literally as well as figuratively supported by a female caryatid figure, which also symbolizes the continuity of power in a matrilineal society. Elaborate coiffures and scarification patterns attested to the high rank of both the depicted female and the owner of the stool. These stools are among the most prized in Africa. The Luba are also known for their figurative headrests, which helped to protect their elaborate hair styles.

GO TO LUBA STOOLS PAGE

GO TO FAMILY MATTERS EXHIBITION PAGE

GO TO MATERNITY FIGURES PAGE

GO TO COUPLES PAGE

GO TO AFRICAN FIGURES PAGE

GO TO MASKS AND HEADS PAGE

GO TO NEW ADDITIONS PAGE

GO TO AFRICAN STOOLS PAGE

HOMEPAGE

 Index by
TRIBE

 Index by
OBJECT

CONTACT US