Luba-shakandi Cult Statue, Drc

Statue depicting a standing female figure, arms at her sides and hands resting on her upper thighs. Breasts and genitals are present. The face is stern and determined. The hairstyle is cascading, as is the tradition among the Shakandi people. Despite the austere expression, this female figure displays a certain coquettishness, as evidenced by her numerous scarifications, her beautiful hairstyle, and the beaded necklaces around her neck and hips. It is undoubtedly a representation of a notable figure. Among the Luba people, cult statues serve to restore the balance between cosmic and social relationships, between the interactions of the visible and the invisible. Diviners and spiritual leaders are there to restore this disrupted balance, using these statues as mediums for spells.
Her stern and determined expression reflects an important character trait in the fight against these invisible forces.
The wood is very dense with a patina of use, showing erosion, cracks, and traces of libations. Beads are also present.
Height: 62 cm
First half of the 20th century
Provenance: Dr. Dintroz collection