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19th Century Luba Stool [Object of the Day #47]


August 21, 2012

Stool
Stool

This wooden stool is supported by a female figure bearing the traits of the Luba identity. The woman sculpted traits indicate that she represents physical perfection.  The designs across her torso emulate scarification, a permanent body modification formed by scaring, burning, or cutting into the skin. She also has her hair pulled up into an elegant coiffure and beautiful, gleaming black skin. Her face is characterized by a serene expression revealing a composed attitude.

Penn Museum Object #AF5121.

See this and other objects like it on Penn Museum’s Online Collection Database.