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Between and Mortarboard

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This standing female <em>nkisi mihasi</em>, or “benevolent” power figure, exhibits many of the typical traits associated with the Luba of the Upemba Basin, and more specifically, with the Kisale center of production. These features include a disproportionately elongated torso, terraced coiffure, diamond-shaped scarification patterns covering the abdomen and back, and, a crescent moon symbol on the pubis. In addition, this figure possesses a round head with almond-shaped eyes, an open mouth, flat and level shoulders, protruding breasts and bellybutton, and horizontal lines across its upper thighs. Multiple strands of white, dark blue, and light blue beads adorn the figure’s neck, upper chest, wrist, hips, and ankle. A cotton loincloth has been wrapped around the figure’s hips.
Luba (Luba (culture or style))
Power Figure
1885 – 1895
Gift of Candis and Helmut Stern
2005/1.212
This woodcarved figure exhibits elaborate diamond-shaped scarifications throughout the torso and crescent-shaped ones across the pubis; a disproportionately long trunk; and, protruding breasts and umbilicus. With semi-spherical feet, the figure stands with knees slightly bent. Her round head features an angular face; a large, concave forehead; coffeebean-shaped eyes; a triangular nose; a small mouth; and a coiffure styled in cascading tiers. The elbows are bent such that her fingers rest atop the shoulders, adjacent to the breasts.
Luba (Luba (culture or style))
Power Figure
1895 – 1905
Gift of Candis and Helmut Stern
2005/1.218
Kneeling female figure with hands placed on knees. The chest and back show scarifications. The teeth are filed and the figure has a flat, raised coiffure. 
Yombe (Yombe (culture or style))
Figure
1880 – 1890
Gift of Candis and Helmut Stern
2005/1.184
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