Luena (Lwena, Lovale), Mother and Child Representation
38 cm (1' 3"), Angola-Zambia

The Luena people (also known as Lwena or Lovale) typically produce only a few figures, but these represent significant social or spiritual roles, such as chiefs, protective female spirits, pregnant women, or mothers, as depicted in this mother figure with her suckling baby. The head of the statuette bears some resemblance to the Mwana Pwo masks of the neighboring Chokwe people; a brass nail serves as forehead decoration. Of note is the recess in the rear area of the intricately carved hairstyle, which likely served for the placement of medicine. The neck of the figure is adorned with a red bead necklace, and the ears with twisted copper wire earrings. The suckling child clings to the mother's breasts, while the mother embraces the child, who clings to her with its legs. The object exhibits a reddish-brown hue in the worn areas, but is predominantly dark brown with a beautiful age patina.
Collection: G.F. Vesely, AT