Chokwe snuffbox stopper
The everyday objects of the Chokwe, such as this snuffbox, are fascinating examples of the art and craftsmanship of this people from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Chokwe snuffboxes are particularly notable for their carved stoppers or lids, often adorned with anthropomorphic figures.
The quality of the carving reflects the artisan's skill and the importance of the object. These characters can represent ancestral figures, spirits, or figures of power and status within Chokwe society.
The snuffboxes were used to hold tobacco, a valuable commodity often used in social and ritual contexts. The carved stopper plays both an aesthetic and symbolic role, reinforcing the importance of the object, while the base also served as a mortar.
Anthropomorphic motifs can serve as spiritual protection or as markers of the user's cultural and social identity. These objects are not only utilitarian but also works of art, testifying to the richness of Chokwe sculptural tradition. They illustrate the interconnectedness of art, daily utility, and spirituality in Chokwe culture.
Illustration: The presented work is a typical example of a Chokwe snuffbox with a carved stopper. The anthropomorphic figure on the stopper is finely crafted, reflecting the typical stylistic features of Chokwe sculptures, with distinctive traits and a significant posture.
These snuffboxes, with their ornate stoppers, are valuable objects that offer insight into the daily life and beliefs of the Chokwe, while highlighting the skill and ingenuity of their artisans.
02520
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 16 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal Art Collection Portugal
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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The everyday objects of the Chokwe, such as this snuffbox, are fascinating examples of the art and craftsmanship of this people from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Chokwe snuffboxes are particularly notable for their carved stoppers or lids, often adorned with anthropomorphic figures.
The quality of the carving reflects the artisan's skill and the importance of the object. These characters can represent ancestral figures, spirits, or figures of power and status within Chokwe society.
The snuffboxes were used to hold tobacco, a valuable commodity often used in social and ritual contexts. The carved stopper plays both an aesthetic and symbolic role, reinforcing the importance of the object, while the base also served as a mortar.
Anthropomorphic motifs can serve as spiritual protection or as markers of the user's cultural and social identity. These objects are not only utilitarian but also works of art, testifying to the richness of Chokwe sculptural tradition. They illustrate the interconnectedness of art, daily utility, and spirituality in Chokwe culture.
Illustration: The presented work is a typical example of a Chokwe snuffbox with a carved stopper. The anthropomorphic figure on the stopper is finely crafted, reflecting the typical stylistic features of Chokwe sculptures, with distinctive traits and a significant posture.
These snuffboxes, with their ornate stoppers, are valuable objects that offer insight into the daily life and beliefs of the Chokwe, while highlighting the skill and ingenuity of their artisans.