Lulua statuary is readily identifiable by the
degree of scarifications and the dignity of the
poses. Among their statues, the small Mbulenga,
or female charm statuettes, are probably the
most famous. Maternity figures, known as
Chibola, are worn on a belt, hence the loop on
the back of the head, and are made to protect
the newborn child or the baby about to be born.
A Chibola also stands guard over childbirths
with
its benevolent expression and vigilant eyes. The
protruding abdomen of the females emphasizes
the importance of the lineage, while the
concentric circles around the pointed navel
symbolize life. A series of rings on the head
balance aesthetically with the scarification rings
around the long neck and top of shoulders. The
upper part of the breasts has a band of
checkerboard scarification. Short, strong legs
are
supported by large feet, the knees are bent with
the buttocks protruding, while the stance makes
the figure tilt backwards, further emphasizing
the extended stomach. The unity of form and
decoration combine to make this statuette very
special, and we can well understand why it
would
be comforting to a woman expecting a child.
- (PF.5015)
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