Male Figurine c. 1900

This male figurine was carved by an artist from the Lulua people out of a single piece of wood. The sculptor has coaxed this human figure out of a dense material, employing a subtractive process, working away at the wood with sharp tools to reveal the form. It is a testament to their technical skill. The figure is simplified but still represents the cultural ideals of the Lulua people. The smooth head, elongated neck and compact body show great care and attention to detail. The work may have been carved using tools like adzes, knives, and chisels, each requiring specific techniques and skill. The type of wood used also would have influenced the carving process. The sculpture reflects a deep understanding of the material's qualities. It embodies a connection to the earth and the natural world. In a way, the artist brought out a being that was already there, hidden within the wood. This transformation reflects the artist's creative power.