Early 20th Century Luba Figural Spoon

Details

Description

The Luba wood spoon was hand-carved by the Luba people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This spoon illustrates … Read more The Luba wood spoon was hand-carved by the Luba people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This spoon illustrates a female kneeling figure with hands on her knees. Luba sculptures and carvings are typically made from hardwoods such as ebony, mahogany, and teak. Luba carvings are known to be detailed and the most popular of their carvings include the female figure which features elongated necks, elaborated hairstyles, and intricate scarification patterns on the face and body. This Luba figural wood spoon was more than an everyday object, it is possible that its function could be closely associated with political authority, social prestige, and religious hierarchy. It also became an external sign of wealth as the spoon could've belonged to a person who could afford an abundant and varied diet and presented offerings to their ancestors to win their good graces. Often the ancestor is represented on the spoon itself. 
Spoon does not stand on its own.




Height (In) 17.5Width (In) 3.5Depth (In) 1.5




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