Photo of collection object Twin Figure
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 Collection, 22.815. Creative Commons-BY.

Twin Figure

late 19th or early 20th century

Luba

Arts of Africa

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.

Maker/Artist
Luba
Classification
Sculpture
Formatted Medium
Wood, glass beads, leather tongs, fiber, metal pins
Dimensions
7 7/8 x 2 3/4 x 2 3/4 in. (20 x 7 x 7 cm)
Departments
Arts of Africa
Accession Number
22.815
Credit Line
Brooklyn Museum Collection
Rights Statement
Creative Commons-BY
Dominant Colors

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