MEMORY BOARDS

Memory boards (Lukasa) were used by Mbudye members as a framework for remembering history and ancient folklore. Beads, Shells, and engravings represent specific events and people related to the Luba people. Each color can represent a king's name or reign. Their placement on the lukasa stands for the king's power over his land. Beads may stnad for individuals, and a large bead surrounded by smaller beads may represent a king and his entourage. The shape itself may represent the royal tortoise with its round head and curving back. The straight lines and even pattern on this memory board may represent roads or a map of residences.