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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Kuba Sculptures : Kuba Double Figural Palm Wine Cup
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Kuba Double Figural Palm Wine Cup - PF.6110
Origin: Democratic Republic of Congo
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
9.5" (24.1cm) high
Collection: African
Style: Kuba
Medium: Wood
£3,600.00
Location: UAE
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| Description |
Palm wine, obtained from the raffia palm tree, is
the most popular beverage consumed in the
areas inhabited by the Kuba tribe. Today, plastic
cups or glasses are used for drinking it; however,
during the 19th and early 20th centuries,
decorated wooden cups were carved by several
tribes across the Southern Savanna. The Kuba
specifically are known for their figural and
cephalomorphic (head-shaped) cups. This
vessel is a perfect example of the masterful
artistry of the Kuba woodcarvers. The most
striking feature is the unusual composition
depicting a man and woman standing back to
back. Their heads are conjoined from behind
and both, together, serve as the vessel. If one
looks inside the interior of the cups, one will find
a small hole that allows the wine to flow evenly
between the two cups. Although the figures’
heads are grossly disproportionate to their
bodies, they are carved in a fairly naturalistic
style. Both stand erect with their hands held to
their sides (although the male grasps his penis
with one of his hands). The man is noted for his
distinctive coiffure, a virtual signature of Kuba
art. The woman stands out for her carefully
rendered keloid scarification that covers her
stomach, considered both a beauty mark and a
symbol of prestige. A cup such as this was
certainly originally carved as a prestigious
display piece for titled individuals of the Kuba
tribe. Surely the vessel’s inherent beauty and
functional durability rival or surpass that of any
fine crystal stemware or bejeweled chalice.
- (PF.6110)
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