Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Luba Peoples, ca. 1900 CE, Rare and finely carved wooden neck rest from the Luba peoples of southeastern Congo. This example features a kneeling female figure with upraised arms supporting a rectangular platform. The caryatid form is a classic motif in Luba art, symbolizing female beauty, ancestral reverence, and social status. The figure is depicted with intricate scarification on the torso and back, and the stylized facial features include high-arched brows, narrow eyes, and a composed expression. Such objects were used by elite individuals, including chiefs and diviners, to protect elaborate coiffures during sleep and served as symbols of prestige. Size: 4.5" W x 7.5" H (11.4 cm x 19 cm)

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#196299

  • Condition: Minor wear to a few edges else intact and excellent.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$0 - $249,999:
26.00%
$250,000+:
22.50%

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 + $500