Teke Mulua u a Mpu necklace
African metal alloy necklace worn by the Teke land chiefs, called Mulua u a Mpu, in the region of what was called the Stanley Pool.
The number of slots indicates the rank of the chief and the number of villages placed under his authority.
Circular and flat, this necklace is incised with decorative motifs whose precise meaning escapes us.
These elaborate copper alloy necklaces were an important symbol of prestige and power of the Bateke chiefs.
02423
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 27 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Metal
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
African metal alloy necklace worn by the Teke land chiefs, called Mulua u a Mpu, in the region of what was called the Stanley Pool.
The number of slots indicates the rank of the chief and the number of villages placed under his authority.
Circular and flat, this necklace is incised with decorative motifs whose precise meaning escapes us.
These elaborate copper alloy necklaces were an important symbol of prestige and power of the Bateke chiefs.