Luba Seated Figure - Male

A headdress that towers, a face that barely reacts.

Luba carvers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made this seated male figure in wood in the 20th century. Luba art is widely associated with royalty and status, and carved coiffures are a common sign of rank. Here a tall, domed headdress towers over a small, round-eyed face with a long, ridged beard. The figure sits with knees drawn up on a low, round base. The wood is black-brown, polished, and glossy, with a deep and even skin.

About 9 inches tall. The headdress does most of the talking.