Figure féminine assise

middle brown wood, slightly shiny dark brown patina, remains of pigments, body scarifications on back and front, prominent pose with crossed legs, delicate facial features and elaborate carved coiffure, min. dam., cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
the female image predominates in Luba art. Woman were important political actors historically, as emissaries and ambassadors, counselors and advisers. Luba scarification patterns are named, and may have multilayered meanings and allusions. A woman decides which patterns she will wear and the messages she wishes to convey.