Description: Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE GJPaw Auctions is pleased to offer a beautiful and highly distinctive vintage figurative wine vessel, from the Mangbetu People, Republic of Congo, Central Africa. The name Mangbetu refers strictly to the ruling aristocracy or royalty, which ruled the region during the 19th century. Most Mangbetu tribal art was reserved for the ruling class and was secular in nature. They are famous for their harps, which were used by court musicians and were often adorned with sculpted human heads. Decorated thrones, knives and utilitarian objects such as wine vessels were also part of the royal regalia. The Mangbetu people had a distinctive look and this was partly due to their elongated heads. At birth the heads of babies were tightly wrapped with cloth in order to give their heads the elongated look. The custom of skull elongation called is known as Lipombo, which was a status symbol among the Mangbetu ruling classes, and denoted majesty, beauty, power and higher intelligence. Because of this distinctive look, it is easy to recognize Mangbetu figures in African art as can be seen in this superb painted terracotta wine vessel. It is beautifully decorated with highly detailed incision patterning. The vessel measures 6 inches in width by 5 inches in depth by 10.5 inches in height (15.2 cm by 12.7 cm by 26.6 cm). It is in very good used condition, with wear showing an age consistent with the late 20th century. It would make a superb addition to any collection of African tribal art and comes from an important mid-west collection. It is guaranteed authentic. GJPaw Auctions has been in the Art business for over 25 years and is now expanding its operation to eBay. Our goal is to bring the same experience and excitement of collecting that we have been delivering in-person to collectors across the Globe at Primitive in Chicago. Every object we sell online has been carefully hand-selected with special attention to detail, quality, and significance. We ship worldwide. Add GJPaw to Sellers you Follow and please take a moment to look at our other auction items. A1200-082
Price: 2495 USD
Location: Chicago, Illinois
End Time: 2023-12-23T21:27:42.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money Back
Maker: Mangbetu
Material: Terracota
Color: Black
Tribe: Mangbetu
Original/Reproduction: Original
