Luba Katatora Divination Carving Congo African Art

Description

Title
Luba Katatora Divination Carving Congo African Art
Type of Object
divination device
Country of Origin
Democratic Republic of the Congo
People
Luba
Materials
Wood, leather, string and pigment
Approximate Age
second half 20th century
Height (in)
6
Width (in)
3.5
Depth (in)
2.25
Other Dimensions
Height: 6 Inches
Width: 3.5 Inches
Depth: 2.25 Inches
Height: 6 Inches
Width: 3.5 Inches
Depth: 2.25 Inches
Overall Condition
Fair. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.   Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use.  We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings.  Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.Fair
Damage/Repair
Chips, cracks and bug damage
Additional Information:
This two figure is skillfully carved with great detail in the hair and aorund the base. The beauty of this carving would make great addition to a collection.
The Luba have a number of different forms of divination used to determine the causes of misfortune or illness or family difficulties or simply the bad side of human experiences. Some of the greatest examples of Luba art serve specific roles in divination. Among the core Luba divination is known as Kashekesheke but is also identified among their Songye neighbors as Katatora. This sculpture would be held by the diviner and the patient who would rub it on the board or possibly on a mat or even on the ground. The diviner would ask questions and the moving sculpture would provide answers through its movements and the conversation between the diviner and the patient. It would stuck and stop moving when the diviner says the  right statement or answer.
Recommended Reading:
Nooter, M. N. and A. F. Roberts. 1996. Memory, Luba Art and the Making of History.
Recommended Reading:
ART OF AFRICA by Kerchache et al, and Susan Vogel, BAULE. AFRICAN ART WESTERN EYES
**121729**
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