Luba Katatora Divination Figure Congo

Hand-carved Luba Katatora Divination artifact on custom base. The Luba people used various forms of divination which included the Kashekesheke or Katatora. A Katatora is a wooden divination tool from the Democratic Republic of Congo that consists of a circular figure with a carved head. It was used to decipher the causes of misfortune or familial issues. This sculpture would be held by both the diviner and the patient and then rubbed on a board, mat, or the ground as it responds to questions through movements, aiding in the conversation between the diviner and the patient. The Katatora's motion stops when the diviner states the correct answer, marking a crucial point in the divination process.