Belt (Yeemy Mambolmashet)
19th century
Jute, raffia, cowrie shells, and beads
13.3 × 1.3 cm (5.2 × 0.5 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
In the Kuba Kingdom, ceremonial occasions require ostentatious displays of wealth and status through dress and other attributes. Specialized male artists excel in the making of beaded regalia like the belt displayed here. They sew both beads and shells onto a woven raffia foundation to create geometric designs. The interlaced pattern on this belt, called imbol , is a favorite Kuba motif that can also be seen on the raffia skirts worn with such beaded ornaments.
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