Figural cup "gbene" ·  Nigéria, Koro · ID: 3041469

Description

wood, encrusted blackish brown patina, traces of kaolin, in shape of a standing figure, carved with deeply hollowed oval receptacle in front of the belly, incised decor, slightly dam. (rim of receptacle), missing parts (feet), abrasion of paint, base;
this type of cup was used during ceremonial sacrifices and funeral rites to drink beer or palm wine. The double bowl enables two people to drink at once.

Littérature comparée

Lebas, Alain (ed.), Arts of Nigeria in French Private Collections, Milan 2012, p. 282