Democratic Republic of Congo Kuba Peoples Ceremonial Palm Wine Vessel
A Democratic Republic of Congo Kuba Peoples Ceremonial Palm Wine Vessel in the Form of a Drum the Handle Carved as an Abstract Human Form
Fine old smooth silky dark brown patina
19th Century
Size: 17cm high, 11.5cm dia. (max) - 6¾ ins high, 4½ ins dia. (max)
Fine old smooth silky dark brown patina
19th Century
Size: 17cm high, 11.5cm dia. (max) - 6¾ ins high, 4½ ins dia. (max)
The incised geometric patterns that covers the surface of this small ceremonial palm wine cup is the same as that found on Kuba textiles. Kuba artists often made their designs dynamic by avoiding exact repetition or symmetry as can be seen in this vessel. The handle is carved as a visual pun for the entertainment and consideration of the drinker, and is characteristic of the handles found on both palm wine vessels and on Kuba drums. As prestige items the cups would be shown by an elder to his peers for their admiration and respect.




Democratic Republic of Congo Kuba Peoples Ceremonial Palm Wine Vessel
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