132-B15-6 | UNI Museum @ Rod Library

Displaying 1 - 2 of 2

	Catalog #	Name	Description
1	2017-26-5	Stool	The round based, dark wooden Luba chief's ceremonial stool is representative of the people of the tribe figuratively and literally supporting the leader through the depiction of both male and female figures supporting the round seat. Carved from a single log, the stool portrays a father and mother ancestor figures back-to-back standing on a circular from, which comprised the central plinth support shape of the stool. The mother figure, with a hairstyle on the back of the head and a diamond-shaped scarification patterns decorating her stomach and torso, raises only one hand in support of the seat, using her left arm to support a suckling babe. The male figure, with a carved beard, raises both hands, palms outward towards the viewer, and supporting the seat on his elongated fingertips. Both figures present slightly bent knees, as if demonstrating that they are holding something of great weight, and stylized rectangle-shaped feet. Shows very old, shiny usage patina.
2	2017-26-6	Female Caryatid Stool	The round based, dark brown painated femal caryatid chief stool depicts a kneeling nude female figure that makes reference to matrilineal dynastic succession. The seat of this royal Luba stool is supported by the female figure that balances it on her head and the tips of her elongated fingers. Her small, ample body is detailed with elaborate scarification markings on the face, abdomen, and back that were regarded to enhance a woman's body as signs of beauty and civilization. The maker favors the use of solid volumes and combines elegance and balance to portray the power and stability of the female figure. Three wristbands decorate each of her enlarged arms, and her donward pointing breasts leads the viewers eye to the beautiful scarifications that ornament the belly. Her elongated hairstyle provides visual balance when observing the stool from either side, sweeping backward from her head. With few abstract traits the maker manages to give a stiocal expression to the face and slit eyes.