Body Art: Marks of Identity | November 20, 1999 to May 29, 2000
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Luba Figure
Photo ©
Finnin/AMNH

 

Luba people maintain that the female body must be made beautiful with scarification marks before it can serve as the vehicle for a spirit. This female figure holds a bowl that serves as a receptacle for objects used by diviners. The elaborate coiffure and scarification patterns are indications of the woman's high status. Her beauty is equated with spiritual power and perfection.

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