Details
ITEM NAME:
Dan Lu Me Figure
ITEM #:
40086
ETHNICITY:
Dan
ORIGIN:
Liberia
MEDIUM:
Wood, pigment.
DIMENSIONS:
15″ (38.1 cm) Tall.
CONDITION:
Fair, arm broken, see images.
CATALOGUE NOTE:
Discover the captivating world of the Dan lu me, the unique wooden portraits of the Dan people. Unlike typical carvings, these are living people’s likenesses, down to the smallest detail. Imagine the honor of having your own figure unveiled at a grand feast, nestled in a custom-built hut. Delve into the intricate details, from the figures’ hairstyles to the cherished symbols of beauty, reflecting a culture’s deep appreciation for individuality and tradition.
In the heart of Dan territory, there lived a respected elder, Adama, renowned for his wisdom and generosity. One day, Adama sought to immortalize his beloved wife, Sika, through a wooden figure intricately carved by his master carver Kofi. The lifelike lu me captured Sika’s essence with such precision that it felt as if she had stepped out of the forest herself – embodying her grace and warmth.
The unveiling of Sika’s lü me became a village celebration and an enduring symbol of love and tradition.
The Dan people’s tradition of carving lü me (wooden figures) as portraits of living individuals reflects their deep appreciation for personal identity and familial ties.
Celebrating and unveiling these figures at grand feasts honors individuals, elevates community prestige, and strengthens social bonds.
The intricate craftsmanship in carving facial features and symbolic scarification patterns showcases artistic skill and cultural values.
Housing Dan lu me figures in specially built huts symbolizes reverence for these figures and signifies the enduring connection between the living and their ancestors.
