Kuba female figure, DRC - Lot 133

Kuba female figure, DRC Sculpted African figure associated with male initiation rites. The kneeling woman bears geometric incisions representing the group's traditional scarification marks. The detailed, skilfully modeled face is typical of Kuba production. Black oiled patina 28 x 8 cm Kuba society was highly organized and hierarchical, with a king or nyim at its center. He was considered to be of divine origin. As head of both the kingdom and the Bushoong chiefdom, he was attributed supernatural virtues derived from witchcraft or the ancestors. He ensured his subjects' survival, whether through harvests, rain or the birth of children. These magical attributes were not hereditary, however, as the king was elected by a council. The Kuba are renowned for the refinement of the prestige objects created for the higher ranks of their society. The Lele live to the west of the Kuba kingdom and share common cultural characteristics with the Bushoong of Kuba country. Both groups decorate their prestige objects with similar motifs. Source: Kuba, ed. 5continents, Binkley and Darish.