Headrest, 19th century, ( x x cm), Wood, copper, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 19th century, The Luba use headrests to protect the elaborate coiffure that is important to their culture. The coiffure, a tradition seen in many African cultures, represents age, status, and gender and is typically adorned with metal, beads, and charms for spiritual power. In addition to the coiffure, scarification is also an important element in Luba tradition because it represents status and is often done to commemorate a rite of passage.

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Size: 3593px × 4553px
Location:
Photo credit: © Penta Springs / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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