Cosmetic
AF575
From: Zaire | Kasai District | Belgian Congo
Curatorial Section: African
Object Number | AF575 |
Current Location | Collections Storage |
Culture | Bushongo | Bangongo |
Provenience | Zaire | Kasai District | Belgian Congo |
Section | African |
Materials | Pigment |
Description | Pressed of Tukula powder (camwood) used like "mourning rings" being given by the heir to the deceased's friends as a souvenir. The cakes are molded by women from camwood powder mixed with water. The ellipsoid ornament is called shi nan boa, dog's tail; and is similiar in shape to an ornament which is applied to women's dresses. The blocks of pigment are carved into various other forms, sometimes implement such as an axe, of a human head, or a lizard, etc. Cakes of pigment are presented to friends at funerals by the heir of the deceased. The heir is normally the eldest surviving brother by the same father and mother. Only men can inherit property. Rectangular in shape, corners slightly project outwards. Front side-five vertical lines carved on each end, body of piece is carved as well with lines and oval shapes. Back side-ten carved horizontal lines from one end to the other side of piece, zigzag motif. Underlying pigment is of a brilliant red. |
Height | 1.8 cm |
Length | 28.5 cm |
Width | 10.2 cm |
Credit Line | Purchased from J. F. G. Umlauff, 1912 |
Other Number | 1058 - Other Number |
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