Lot 288, Auction 3/19/2026: African Luba Wood Caryatid Woman Votive Headrest

$390.00

In stock

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Luba / Hemba culture, ca. early 20th century CE. A small-scale wood caryatid headrest carved as a nude female ancestral figure, shown standing upright and supporting the curved rest on her head and raised fingertips. The compact proportions suggest it may have been intended as a portable headrest, a child’s object, or a votive or symbolic form rather than a fully functional example. The carving emphasizes the human form as a structural and spiritual support, reflecting the association of headrests with ancestry, protection, and the safeguarding of the head during rest. Size: 2.75″ W x 4.5″ H (7 cm x 11.4 cm); 6.25″ H (15.9 cm) on included custom stand.

Condition: Stable fissures across chest, seat, and right foot and base. Chips and abrasions to surfaces. Dark patina with white and red remains of pigment.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex-major gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, primarily acquired between 1985 and 2005

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

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