The Kuba are a large tribe comprised of various smaller entities that are quasi-autonomous within the Kuba polity but are related genetically and artistically. Their social systems are headed by the “Mushenge” who are responsible for the spiritual and material wealth of the populace. The kingdom was founded in the early 17th century by a major leader named Shyaam a-Mbul a Ngoong-Shyaam, who exploited trade networks and became very wealthy. Kuba religion is based upon a creator god named MBoom, while more immediate concerns were dealt with by a being named Woot; the Kuba are thus also known as the Children of Woot.

Kuba art is often extremely ornate and varied, and tends to revolve around courtly regalia. Their large wood sculptures – including Ndop king sculptures – have an apotropaic function. Many pieces are decorated with cowrie shells, linear motifs and Tukula/twool (red camwood powder). They decorate utilitarian objects to such an extent that they have been described as a people who cannot bear to leave a surface without ornament. They are perhaps best known for their boxes (ngedi mu ntey) and palm wine cups, which were used as markers of status in the royal courts.

The stunning, naturalistic representation of an older, seated man upon a stool has been carved from a dark, heavy wood. Stools are the traditional symbol of authority in sub-Saharan Africa. As such, both his posture and his ornamentation, including bracelets, armbands, a necklace, and a headdress, attest to his identity as the king of his people. He wears his age, notably in his large belly, protruding breasts, and prominent sagging chin. His face, clearly a portrait rendered in striking naturalism, also has been worn by time. This remarkable figure may have been commissioned by the king himself, or it may have been carved shortly after his passing as a memorial to the tribe's fallen leader.