Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba peoples, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A carved wood cup in the form of a royal person's head, with a handle on the verso shaped as a stylized figure. Aristocratic members of the Kuba kingdom often commissioned refined personal accessories like this one to display their achievements, as titles and positions of power were earned based on merit rather than inheritance. Such cups were used by the elite to symbolize their positions and generosity, typically by distributing large quantities of palm wine to friends and associates. This vessel features several traditional Kuba characteristics, including a closed mouth symbolizing the belief that thought should precede speech, raised scars near the ears on the temple reflecting cultural refinement, and a shaved hairline framing the forehead, which was believed to be the seat of wisdom and insight. Size: 4.5" Diameter x 7.25" H (11.4 cm x 18.4 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection

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#190189

  • Condition: Stable pressure fissure on the foot radiating upward and fissure on the rim. Nicks and abrasions, otherwise good condition with patina.

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November 22, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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