Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Shankadi region, Lovoi River region
Title: Headrest: Female Caryatid Figure
Written by Keketso Dibakwane and Ssiima Sematimba
Edited by Kamdi Okonjo
Luba Empire
Image taken from Zemanek-Munster
Luba Empire - Central Africa
The resounding triumph of the Kingdom of Luba can be attributed to a combination of remarkable factors, with the Luban people's exceptional skills in ironworking and their strategically advantageous geographic location along the banks of the majestic Lualaba River serving as the cornerstones of their success. The Luban's unparalleled expertise in iron craftsmanship bestowed upon them a formidable advantage, as they forged superior tools, weapons, and intricate artifacts that not only propelled their economic prosperity but also showcased their mastery of metalworking arts. These remarkable creations spoke volumes about the Luba people's ingenuity and artistic expression, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to captivate the world.
The Kingdom of Luba's strategic position along the sprawling banks of the Lualaba River acted as a gateway to immense opportunities for trade and cultural exchange. It provided the Luban people with unrivaled access to extensive trade networks, allowing them to foster connections with neighboring regions and engage in the prosperous exchange of commodities. Minerals, agricultural produce, and luxury goods flowed along the arteries of the Lualaba River, further fueling the kingdom's economic growth and solidifying its status as a center of commerce and influence.
However, the arrival of European colonial powers, with Belgium's colonization of Congo at the forefront, marked a turbulent chapter in the annals of the Kingdom of Luba and the broader region of Central Africa. This unfortunate era brought significant upheavals, reshaping the political, social, and economic fabric of the indigenous kingdoms and cultures.
Nonetheless, the enduring legacy of the Kingdom of Luba stands as a testament to the extraordinary achievements and cultural heritage that Central Africa bequeathed to the world. It symbolizes the resilience and creative brilliance of a people who forged great empires and left an indelible mark on the vibrant mosaic of Congo's past and present.
Central Africa, with its resplendent kingdoms, diverse cultures, and captivating history, continues to inspire awe and ignite the imagination. The Kingdom of Luba shines as a beacon, representing the region's rich tapestry of minerals, trade, artistic excellence, and architectural marvels. It invites us to embark on a journey of discovery, unearthing the profound contributions of Central Africa's civilizations and honoring their enduring legacy in the grand tapestry of human history.
Central Africa, a land brimming with precious minerals, vibrant trade routes, awe-inspiring art, and architectural wonders, stands as a testament to the remarkable tapestry of kingdoms, cultures, and history that flourished within its borders. Among these illustrious realms, the Kingdom of Luba shines as a captivating piece in the magnificent puzzle that is Congo, the heart of central Africa. Renowned as one of the earliest and most influential states to emerge in Congo, the Kingdom of Luba left an indelible mark on the region's storied past, spanning from the 15th century until the unfortunate colonization by Belgium in the 19th century.
Empire Location
The Luban Empire, an ancient African empire, emerged in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a country renowned for its significant size and location in Central Africa. With its revolutionary leaders, storied history, and abundant mineral resources, the Democratic Republic of the Congo has long captivated the attention of colonizers and explorers. The Luban Empire, boasting a population of one million, thrived until the 18th century, when tragic events such as enslavement and Belgium's annexation of Congo unfolded, altering the course of history for its people.
Empire History
The Luba Empire, tracing its origins back to 1300 CE in central Africa, emerged from a close relationship between the Luba kings and the Lualaba and Kongolo people of present-day Congo. Remarkably, the Luba lineage followed a matrilineal system until around 1500 CE when it transitioned to patrilineal traditions, exemplifying the evolution and adaptability of their societal structures.
According to Luba's rich oral history, Kongolo, a leader of the Luba people, preceded the formation of the renowned Luba Empire. However, his rule was marked by cruelty, leading to the dissatisfaction of the Luba people. In contrast, his military strategist, Mbidi, played a pivotal role in the empire's early expansion and gained widespread admiration. Fearing Mbidi's growing influence, Kongolo sought to remove him from power and appointed his nephew, Kulala llunga, as his successor.
The details surrounding Kulala llunga's identity remain shrouded in mystery. According to oral history, he was Kongolo's nephew, while alternative research suggests he was a random hunter who influenced Kongolo's perspective. Regardless of his origin, Kulala llunga eventually became a revered military tactician and nurtured both military triumphs and positive relations with the Lualaba people. Ascending to the throne, he expanded the empire's domain into regions encompassing Katanga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Llunga's impressive ability to extend the empire's reach exemplifies the profound impact of the Bantu migration, not only on central Africa but on the entire continent. The Bantu migration facilitated the exchange of knowledge, language, and cultural practices, fostering a sense of interconnectedness among African nations.
While the precise origins and history of the Luba Kingdom remain elusive, dedicated historians and esteemed organizations like UNESCO continue to engage in ongoing research, shedding light on this extraordinary chapter of central Africa's past. Through these endeavors, we strive to unravel the mysteries, discover new insights, and gain a deeper understanding of the remarkable contributions of the Luba Empire to the cultural tapestry of the African continent. According to UNESCO:
“The Luba kingdom was probably founded before 1500 by a certain Kongolo, near Kalongo, by the fusion of several patrilineal clans. Each clan headed by a chief or kiloto, the 'owner of slaves', recognized the king's authority. The king was surrounded by at least two dignitaries, the guardian of emblems, called inabanza, and the military chief of twite. The 'sacredness' or bulopwe of kingship was inherent in the blood which flowed in the veins of the reigning lineage. (226)”.
Luban people and culture
A comprehensive understanding of the Luban people's history and culture can be obtained by delving into the lineage of Luban kings and their expansion into neighboring lands. Through the examination of Luban oral history and the accounts of past kings, a previously unknown connection to the Shaba region, which housed the iron-age Lualaba people, has come to light. The Lualaba people were renowned for their local metal and copper deposits, and they constituted a vast empire consisting of various patrilineal clans.
As an empire comprising diverse clans, the Luban Kingdom became a tapestry of traditions and cultures woven into a cohesive whole. Many Congo kingdoms, including the Luba Empire, share a common ancestry as subgroups of the Bantu-speaking people, resulting in linguistic similarities among them. The Luban people themselves were indigenous Bantu speakers, but as their empire expanded, their languages became collectively known as the South Congoland or Luba-Lunda Languages. These languages diverged according to geographical locations within the empire, giving rise to regional variations. For instance, Lulua was spoken in the west, Moyw in the northwest, Ci-Luba in the south, Ki-hemba in the east, Luna-inkongwo in the north, and Lu-soge and Beneki in the northeast.
Central to the Luban people's belief system was the concept of divine power. They regarded their kings as sacred individuals divinely chosen to lead. The Mbudye, a powerful secret society, counted a significant number of Luban kings among its members. One of the society's remarkable inventions was the Lukasa, a memory board utilized in divination rituals. The Lukasa, also known as the "Men of Memory," consisted of beads of various sizes, colors, and shapes. It served as a visual representation of Luba's history, functioning as a chronicle of the empire's achievements and aspirations.
By exploring the intricate lineage of Luban kings, the diverse linguistic landscape, and the significance of the Mbudye secret society and the Lukasa memory board, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and cultural legacy of the Luban people. It is through such exploration that we can unlock the treasures of their past and preserve their remarkable contributions to the historical tapestry of Central Africa.
Importance of the Luba Empire
Today, with the advancements in technology and archaeology, our understanding of the Luban Empire is expanding. African artifacts, including those from Congo, are being discovered at an increasing rate, shedding light on the rich cultural heritage of the region. These artifacts, such as the prized Kifwebe masks in the Luban Songye languages, hold immense value and are sought after in auctions, fetching millions. They not only showcase the enigmatic and exotic beauty of the region but also provide insights into the history, abilities, and close ties of the Songye people.
These artifacts serve as poignant reminders of a bygone era in Congo's history, contrasting with the country's more recent association with colonial exploitation and violent conflicts. While Congo continues to grapple with the lingering consequences of its past, including legacies of colonialism, violence, and poverty, these discoveries offer glimpses into a different time—a period of success and prosperity during the Luban Empire. They remind the Congolese people that they, too, have the potential to rise and achieve greatness, just as their ancestors did.
The positive research surrounding ancient artifacts and art provides a beacon of hope for Congo. It highlights a Congo that existed before colonization and poverty, encouraging the country to reclaim its cultural heritage, celebrate its achievements, and strive for a brighter future. By embracing their rich history, the Congolese people can draw inspiration from the Luban Empire's success, fostering a sense of pride and resilience as they navigate the challenges of the present.
References
Cartwright, M. (2020, April 01). Kingdom of Luba. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/Kingdom_of_Luba/
By Editorial Team (Think Africa). “Tools of African History: the Lukasa Memory Board of the Luba Kingdom”; April 11, 2019. Available at: https://thinkafrica.net/tools-of-african-history-the-lukasa-memory-board-of-the-luba-kingdom/
ASHLEY COWIE (Ancient Origins). “Half A Million Dollar Mask With Otherworldly Origins”; UPDATED 26 MARCH, 2017 - 18:56. Available at: https://www.ancient-origins.net/artifacts-other-artifacts/half-million-dollar-mask-otherworldly-origins-007788
Afropede@. “Luba Empire”. Available at: http://www.afropedea.org/luba-empire
School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) Archives, University of London (Jisc). Dates of Creation: pre 191.
Sir Harry Hamilton Johnston. “Vocabularies of Bantu and Semi-Bantu Languages”. Available at: https://archiveshub.jisc.ac.uk/search/archives/e5a0bfa3-8711-35ce-a087-e4249dd33c03?component=3796574b-5e39-3c44-866f-d3c05f148d49&terms=luba