Twin Figure
1 of 2
Object Label
The Luba believe that twins, called "children of the moon," have supernatural powers and can be the harbingers of both good and evil. Twins must be honored and appeased through songs, prayers, blessings, and gifts made each month on the night of a new moon. Figures like this commemorate the spirit of a twin, and the insertion of an iron pin in the top of the head is intended to contain and channel the spirit within.
Caption
Luba. Twin Figure, late 19th or early 20th century. Wood, glass beads, leather tongs, fiber, metal pins, 7 7/8 x 2 3/4 x 2 3/4 in. (20 x 7 x 7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Museum Collection, 22.815. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Culture
Title
Twin Figure
Date
late 19th or early 20th century
Geography
Place made: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium
Wood, glass beads, leather tongs, fiber, metal pins
Classification
Dimensions
7 7/8 x 2 3/4 x 2 3/4 in. (20 x 7 x 7 cm)
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Collection
Accession Number
22.815
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