Luba Fetish Figure

Democratic Republic of Congo

Early 20th c

5 inches high x 1 1/2 inches wide

Ex: Dr. Alan Solem, Chicago, IL

Ex: J. J. Klejman, New York

$ 750

Inv. # A3167

The Luba fetish is a finely carved half figure that was used by ritual specialist for protection, healing and witchcraft. The figure has a heart shaped face, slant eyes, triangular nose, and long bent arms with hands resting on the abdomen. Magical materials were embedded into the cavity on top of the head which invited spirits to inhabit the figure as a receptacle.