Magnificent Monumental Kuba Cup (Mbaya) – DR Congo, ca. 1950

Magnificent Monumental Kuba Cup (Mbaya) – DR Congo, ca. 1950

This imposing wooden vessel is a masterful example of the artistic refinement of the Kuba people from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Standing at a remarkable height of 27 cm with a bowl circumference of 41.5 cm, this is a rarely seen large-scale specimen that commands attention in any interior or collection.

Expertly carved from a single block of hardwood, the cup features a serene anthropomorphic form. The face is stylized with characteristic almond-shaped eyes, a strong nose, and the iconic Kuba hairline. Both the bowl and the base are richly adorned with the classic interlocking geometric carvings, known as nshamatye. This intricate pattern mirrors the complex woven textures found in the famous Kuba textiles.

Specifications & Condition

• Origin: DR Congo, Kuba culture.

• Date: Circa 1950.

• Dimensions: Height 27 cm | Bowl circumference 41.5 cm.

• Weight: 1196 grams.

• Condition: In very good condition with a deep, rich patina. The base features a professional, high-quality repair that fully preserves both the structural integrity and the aesthetic appeal of the piece.

Valuation

Objects of this scale and quality are typically valued in specialized tribal art galleries or at auction houses (such as Sotheby's or Christie's) between € 850 and € 1,250, depending on provenance.