Horn
Late 19th-early 20th century
Wood, copper alloy, and iron
44.5 × 11.4 cm (17.5 × 4.5 in)
SEE IT IN PERSON
Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
Drinking horns and cups are among the many insignia that have denoted status in the highly hierarchical Kuba society since the kingdom’s foundation in the 17th century. This wooden sculpture—decorated with raised geometric and figural designs—imitates the horn of a buffalo, an animal that stands for the powerful, untamed wilderness and is therefore associated with both rulers and warriors.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
More by Kuba
More like this
Hemba — Ritual Head
Ica — Incised and Painted Container for Lime with Carved Sto
Yoruba — Tapper (Iroke Ifa)
Artist unknown — Powder Horn
Germany — Borer
China — Miniature Bottle in the Form of an Ancient Bronze Ja
Chimú — Flute with Incised Geometric Motif and Mouth in the 
French, probably Dieppe — Powder Horn
Ica — Incised Container for Lime with Monkey Stopper
Ancient Etruscan — Stemmed Kyathos (Drinking Cup)
Chimú-Inca — Drinking Vessel in the Form of a Foot
Artist unknown — Box