Lele people; Democratic Republic of the Congo
Wood; 5 3/4 x 3 1/2 x 4 1/4 in.
F80.49.1
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Jon Herman
Perhaps more than any of the arts in Africa, Kuba art* is concerned with the ornamentation of daily use objects. This tradition was fueled by 18th century officials of the Kuba kingdom court who equated their decorated possessions with their superiority in status, power and wealth. This competitive nature extended to all facets of daily life resulting in even the most common of household goods developing into works of art. Artistic innovation and originality burgeoned, with strong emphasis placed on patterns and decorative motifs. A cup like this was used to drink palm wine, a traditional alcoholic beverage served to guests on special occasion. The cup would be presented and admired for its qualities before its contents were communally shared. This cup most likely represents a portrait of the patron who commissioned it. The face is well proportioned, has a narrow mouth with closed lips and opened but, relaxed eyes. The expression is serene and emphasizes the individual’s inner demeanor or state of being. Often patrons made sure their portraits included features that allowed them to be quickly identifiable by others; the facial hair on the chin and the double rows of square scarification marks extending from eyes to ears may be such distinguishing marks. The rim of the cup reflects the shape and size of the base that cleverly doubles for the neck. This overall design is symmetrical, symbolic of order and security central to Kuba values. This particular cup is carved deeply, a sign of a masterful artist, and signifying it belonged to an important person. A looped handle extends from the center back of the cup and the wood is beautifully patinated. *Kuba art is a term used to describe any art produced in the Kuba kingdom or the work produced by neighboring ethnicities, such as the Lele, that possess strong artistic correlations.
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