164 - Important anthropomorphic mortar carved from wood, Lulua (Luluwa), Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Important anthropomorphic mortar carved from wood, Lulua (Luluwa), Democratic Republic of the Congo. A remarkable sculpture depicting a crouching figure, with the legs strongly bent and the hands framing the face. The voluminous head, with half-closed eyes and curvilinear scarifications, is carved into a deep cavity that retains traces of reddish deposits. The long, ringed neck, angular limbs, and feet with distinct toes attest to a particularly elaborate composition. Beautiful dark reddish-brown patina, glossy in places. An old crack in the wall of the vessel. Comparative reference: Christie’s, Paris, December 10, 2024, lot 21, Luluwa mortar from the Karin and Leo van Oosterom collection. Formerly in the J. Lecluse collection, Liège Height: 32.5 cm