Divination pestle "lubuko"
Click here to view a larger version of the imageLot: 431
87th Tribal Art AuctionDivination pestle "lubuko"
D. R. Congo, Luba/Kanyok
Provenance | Size | Starting price / estimated price |
---|---|---|
H: 11.8 inch | This object is not available anymore. |
wood, dark brown patina, remains of pigments, in shape of a human head rising from overlong neck with round base (commonly wrapped with hide), min. dam., small missing parts, fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion.
Used for "lubuko", the most common Luba term for "divination". They probably are also used to mix a pinch of chalk with medicinal substances that are dispensed to patients.
Herreman, Frank, To cure and protect, New York 1999, p. 31, ill. 45