This is a finely carved old wooden female effigy of a sacred bowl-bearing figure created by the Luba peoples of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. 

Traditionally craved as a kneeling or seated female figure holding a vessel, it served as an oracle and container for divination rituals. 

The sculpture measures 13 x 8.5 inches. Luba peoples, Congo, Africa. 

Provenance: A private American collection.