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Luba power figure
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Early 20th Century
6 1/4" tall by 3" wide
Wood, beads, shell, animal skin, hair, magic charge, pigment
Ex private collection, Rhode Island
Inventory # RT66
$3000
Luba power figures were charged with materials
believed to enhance life powers, including pulverized
fragments of human bone or the hair of twins. These
substances were inserted into a hole in the figure's
head or stomach, or placed in pouches made of animal
skin that were attached to the figure.
Personal power figures were used as a part of the
healing process. After the administration of herbal
medications, the healer or diviner may prescribe
commissioning such a work as a form of protective
reinforcement.
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