Details
ITEM NAME:
Lulua Maternity Figure
ITEM #:
5553
ETHNICITY:
Lulua
ORIGIN:
Democratic Republic of Congo
MEDIUM:
Wood.
DIMENSIONS:
12.5″ (31.75 cm) Tall.
CONDITION:
Good.
PROVENANCE:
Jean-Pierre Hallet Estate Collection – California, USA.
CATALOGUE NOTE:
The intricate markings that grace the Lulua Maternity Figure are not merely decorative; they unveil a story woven into every curve and line. This exquisite artwork captures a standing mother tenderly holding her child, embodying the legacy and artistry prevalent among the Lulua, an ethnic community along the bountiful Kasai River.
Steeped in tradition, this figure is a salute to ancestry—shaped by the belief that lineage is the backbone of society. The body markings, etched with remarkable excellence, aren’t just aesthetic; they narrate tales of heritage and heroism. These scarifications, distinctive to the Luluwa, once symbolized notable feats and prestige in society. Though the practice faced a decline with colonial bans, it has seen a resurrection, echoing the resilience of the Lulua culture.
The depiction of the maternal form in the arms of a woman speaks volumes about the revered role of motherhood and fertility within their community. It highlights the symbolism entrenched in the Bwanga bwa Tshibola—a quintessential fertility ritual.
Looking at the Lulua Maternity Figure calls to mind the melting pot of cultural legacies that the Lulua have both preserved and adapted, having drawn from interactions with neighboring groups like the Luba, Pende, and Chokwe. Their sculptures often reflect their upper echelons—chiefs or warriors signified through regalia, swords, and mystical containers meant to bridge the spiritual divide with the ancestors.
Pay close attention to the details sculpted on this piece—the elegant skirt, the intricate hairstyle, and the emphasized umbilicus—all clues that elevate the status of the figure portrayed, adding layers of meaning to the sculpture’s stoic poise. While the scars may map out valor and identity, they equally represent a rich aesthetic that is undeniably Lulua.
