CARYATID CUP
Chokwe Culture, Angola
First half of the 20th century
Wood with a shiny patina
H.: 26; Diam.: 7.5 cm
A wooden cup, the base of which is carved with a male figure forming a caryatid. He stands crouched on a circular base, his hands placed on the ground, the cup balanced on the top of his head.
The belly of the latter has a shiny patina. The neck is engraved with a frieze of diamonds on a background of incised obliques.
This type of pot was most often used for tobacco or medicinal plants. Indeed, their smoke was considered an offering to the ajimu spirits.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
Ref.: 4939