Kuba kings were sometimes commemorated by carved, symbolic portraits that denoted principles of kingship. However, unlike portraiture in European art, these carvings, called ndop, did not represent how deceased king looked, but represented his spirit and status. Measuring about 48-55 centimeters in height, ndops are carved of hardwood, which is unusual in African art, and they are in a posture that is equally rare in African sculpture. Each sits crosslegged on a square base from which a small wooden object projects. The figures' identities can be determined according to these emblematic objects.
