Maternity Figure - Bena Lulua - D.R. Congo- CALL

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The 300,000 Lulua migrated from West Africa in the 18th century and settled in the southern Congo. They live in small regional chiefdoms.

This maternity figure aided pregnant women both before and after childbirth. Its efficacy makes for an easy childbirth and provides spiritual protection for the child. Pregnant woman are members of the Bwanga Bwa Cibola society, an organization also present among the Luba and Songye peoples.

The geometric markings covering the figure, which is typical of Lulua carvings, represent body scarification. Their abundance and variety are thought to be the result of influence from various ethnic groups encountered during the tribe's multiple migrations. The concentric circles around the naval symbolize life.

28"H x 6"W x 6"D

Provenance

Exhibited in Paris, "Traveaux et Memories", 1938
Dr. Milton Gross
Acquired from above by Dr. Arvin Klein, 1970
Exhibited in San Diego Fine Arts Museum, 1978

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