Bankishi Statuette - Luba - Ground Floor - Early 20th Century - Primitive / Tribal Art

Small Bankishi statuette representing a seated female figure, her hands resting on her round belly. The neck is long, the face has an internalized and vigilant expression. The headdress is arranged in three braids, including a central one sculpted in relief falling on the nape of the neck. A small metal ring adorns the belly. Two perforations at the top of the head allowed it to be hung. Wood, metal, old honey and shiny brown patina of use. Luba, Democratic Republic of Congo, early 20th century Dimensions: 10 x 2.8 cm – With base: 12.2 cm Provenance: former collection in northern France Sold with certificate of authenticity from the expert Serge Reynes, guarantee of origin and period. * Shipping costs upon request. "Used by diviners (bilumbu), Bankishi statuettes served as ritual supports to channel beneficial forces and interact with the spiritual world. This female figure, with her hands placed on her belly, probably symbolizes fertility, maternal protection, or healing. The posture and attributes reinforce its role in rituals related to fertility and women's health."