Striking vintage African wooden statue, skilfully carved by the Lube tribe from Congo - it depicts a seated female figure holding a bowl in her lap. This carving is a classic Luba figure. Dating from 1960s - possibly older. Acquired through an African Art Gallery in San Francisco in the 80s. In good vintage condition. 16" high and 5" wide at the base.

"The image of a female figure holding a bowl is found among a number of stylistically related groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo either one of the Luba subgroups or neighbors subtlety influenced by Luba art and symbolism. The different forms and styles of Luba influenced sculptures generally served a common purpose as ?objects of power?, ritual and ceremony. This figure and bowl serves to recognize the rank of a chief or senior lineage head as it would be a chiefly container of some prestige or serve local diviners holding various objects and substances required for divination."

From: Memory: "Luba Art & Making of History"