In Luba traditional art a kabwelulu is a figure surmounting a gourd used during initiation rituals. The individual would place certain secret items in the gourd invoking the memory and experience of the initiation, creating an object that acquired power over time.
Despite its traditional form and appearance, this nicely assembled gourd with figure exhibits little use or age and was probably made to be sold. A round ring is needed for the gourd to stand. It is included and can be either white or black.
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