Existing comment:
African, Luba culture (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Stool, 19th century
A stool with its seat supported by a female figure is one of the essential royal symbols for a Luba king. Reflecting the central role of women in politics, social organizations, and creation myths, the female figure is the primary subject matter of Luba art. Here the serene and beautifully detailed figure holds the seat effortless aloft in a sensitively balanced composition. McGinness's icon emphasizes the symmetry and patterning of the carving. |