Kuba Lidded Box in the Form of a Longhouse

Details:
Ornately carved wooden containers such as this were kept by Kuba men in present day south-central Democratic Republic of Congo to store costume accessories and items used for personal care. These included razors, beads, and camwood powder which was used to coat and beautify the skin. The carved surface of the container features the same geometric designs made popular in the woven raffia skirts and velvet panels of the Kuba.