Pose: Expression Within The Male Figure

Depictions of the ideal male form have been reproduced throughout human history; each conforming to the societal standards of the time. One idea, that crosses cultural boundaries, is that of the man as the provider. There are certain qualities highlighted in the male body to convey this concept, Chibida Ilunga and Anguish 20 being no exceptions. Although the works feature disparate styles, they ultimately speak upon similar states of manliness by utilizing posture. I will compare how the artworks evoke parallel definitions of masculinity with regard to their poses and facial expressions.

The Chokwe are a cultural group mainly found in Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They belonged to the Lunda Empire, before gaining their independence in the 19th century. The development of trade routes between the Chokwe region and the coast of Angola facilitated trade of ivory and rubber, leading to the acquisition of wealth. This was followed by a brief takeover of neighboring Lunda states; their success was undermined by “the effects of overexpansion, disease, and colonialism. ”

The Chokwe people live off of the land, growing crops, such as manioc, cassava, yams, tobacco, and maize. They also tend to domesticated livestock, despite resorting to hunting for their primary source of protein. They have designated hunting groups, known as Yanga, who are responsible for obtaining larger game. Agricultural production within the society falls upon the Chokwe women, who are versed in naturally conserving the land.

In the Chokwe culture, artworks were used to honor and celebrate the nobility. These included portraiture sculptures, used to signify the royal ancestry, and “ornately carved stools and chairs used as thrones. ” Skilled sculptors were periodically commissioned by wealthy local chiefs to immortalize rulers and cultural heroes through art.

This figurine is a rendering of the legendary royal ancestor of the Chokwe people, Chibida Ilunga. Ilunga united his native Luba tribe with the Lunda culture when he was granted control of their kingdom through his marriage to a local princess. He is credited with introducing the Lunda people to the art of hunting and the Luba’s unique political structure, which was “based on twin principles of sacred kingship (balopwe) and rule by council. ” Ilunga eventually became an prime example of a traditional Chokwe chief and a model for the men in the society. An elaborate headpiece is incorporated, featuring curved ends, to display his noble status. Within the Chokwe culture, the intricate depiction of the sacred hunter chief was a right reserved for only the most skilled artists.