Power Figure c. 20th century

This Power Figure was made by the Luba people with wood, gourds, and other natural materials. It's got this incredible sense of balance, both visually and conceptually, with the smooth gourd base contrasting with the textured, intricate figure on top. The artist's hand is so evident, isn't it? You can almost feel the carving process, the way the wood was shaped and coaxed into form. Then, there's the gourd. It has this beautifully burnished surface, but up close, you see all these tiny marks and imperfections, the evidence of time and touch. Note how the objects are bound together with natural cords and fibers, it’s almost like a visual metaphor for the binding of spiritual power. This piece reminds me of the work of some of the early assemblage artists like Joseph Cornell, who also used found objects to create these little worlds of meaning. Art's always echoing, isn't it?