Object Notes

This pear-shaped container is entirely decorated with incised vertical, horizontal, and semicircular ribs, alternating with delicate cross-hatching, that occur not only on the sides but under the round foot as well. It was once filled with black gunpowder used in a flintlock muzzle-loading musket—a type of firearm that was introduced through trade in the 17th century.

This dramatic headcrest features lifelike facial features that the sculptor achieved by stretching damp antelope skin tightly over carved contours. Painting the eyebrows and adding pupils and teeth also adds to the illusion of naturalism.

This figure demonstrates the sculptor's keen sense of observation and attention to anatomy and clothing. The Africans called Europeans mindele, or "those in cloth," because they wore unnecessary cloths. The sculptor depicted his subject with a haughty facial expression and hair hanging in straight locks beneath his hat.