Tribal Art

This milk container has a handle and a rounded lid. The decorative friezes are made of pearls and cowrie shells, the latter symbolizing material wealth and having constituted a currency of exchange during the 19th century in Africa. Soft and satin surface, glossy patina. Minimal cracks.
The Kuba and the tribes settled between the Sankuru and Kasai rivers, including the Bushoong and Dengese also from the Mongo group, are renowned for the refinement of prestige objects created for members of the higher ranks of their society. Several Kuba groups produced anthropomorphic ceremonial objects with refined designs, including cups, drinking horns and goblets. The Kuba kingdom was founded in the 16th century by the Bushoong who are still ruled by a king today. It is the most prolific ...