Large Ritual Figure with Lidded Vessel, Luba, DR Congo, Early–Mid 20th Century

Large and impressive carved wooden ritual sculpture from the Luba culture of the Democratic Republic of Congo depicting a standing male figure holding two staffs and supporting a decorated ritual vessel. The figure features characteristic Luba stylistic elements including an elongated neck with geometric scarification patterns, half-closed eyes, stylised beard and an elaborate headdress possibly representing an animal skin associated with prestige and authority. The lidded container is finely carved with geometric motifs and likely functioned as a sacred vessel for ritual substances or medicinal materials used in ancestral cult practices. The sculpture stands on an expressive animal base, probably representing a leopard, a powerful emblem of leadership and royal authority in Central African symbolism.

Good overall condition with age-related wear and an old repair to one arm.

Height 120 cm.

Material: Wood.

From an old private African art collection, assembled in the second half of the 20th century.