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This janus, or double-faced carved wooden bust, is characteristic of the eastern Luba style, also known as the Luba-Hemba style. The elongated, ovoid-shaped faces, thin, long noses, and eyes surrounded by ocular cavities are traits typically seen in Hemba figural work.  The motifs on the temples and forehead and the intricate geometric designs decorating the head depict actual Luba scarifications. Both faces closely resemble each other and feature long beards. A round cup sits atop the large, convex head; this cup conceals a cavity in the crown, allowing medicinal substances to be held inside.  Wrapped around the bust’s long neck is a piece of brown cloth that has been held in place by a cord. A hook has been attached to this cord allowing the object to hang undisturbed in order to safeguard it when not in use.
Luba (Luba (culture or style))
Double-Faced Power Figure
1895 – 1905
Gift of Candis and Helmut Stern
2005/1.213
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