Cephalomorphic ritual vessel - Culture Luba

Ritual terracotta vessel in spherical form, completed with a masculine head. The body presents decoration of points and lines, which are incised all around the piece. The facial features are very slightly marked. One of its most striking characteristics is the carefully produced hairstyle, composed of various rows of plaits. On the other hand the piece presents small traces of red polychromy. Taking into account that the recipients of this colour were used by the diviners, it may be that this was the use of the object. The fact only a few traces of the red slip remain is a sign of its antiquity and considerable use.