The surface of this Kuba prestige cup is decorated with finely engraved overlapping and interweaving patterns, typical of those used by Kuba artisans.
Over time, the cup has developed a lovely surface patina.
Estimated Period: First Half of 20th Century
The Kuba have been described as people who cannot bear to leave a surface unadorned. The decorative details adorning this cup reflected the owner’s wealth, status and influence within the kingdom.
Reference
J. Andes, ‘Art We Miss: Royal Mask Complex’, Utah Museum of Fine Arts https://umfa.utah.edu/kuba-masks
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