Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba peoples (also Bakuba), ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A beautiful and elegant hand carved tea pot shaped vessel made from a rich black wood and inlaid with ungulate bone discs. The cylindrical, barrel shaped body rests on flat, flared foot, and supports a large spout opposite a handle. The exterior throughout is incised with magnificent textured patterns of linear motifs inspired by weaving and several circular bone inlays. The Kuba live in the savannah region and once controlled a powerful kingdom. Vessels like this one were often used for serving palm wine and were luxury items that marked prestige. Size: 6" W x 5.125" H (15.2 cm x 13 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Allan Stone collection, New York, USA

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#167965

Repaired with the spout reattached with faint break line across surface, and some adhesive that pooled from spout into main body. Stable fissures radiating from spout mouth. Missing one bone inlay and chips and stable fissures to the others. Old inventory labels on base. Lustrous patina throughout.