Pipe (Kinsu)

Unknown

19th–20th century · Wood, hide, clay, oil patina stain · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Within Yaka communities, the designs of utilitarian objects have been enhanced with geometric patterns and figurative elements. Such sculptural details are distinctive for their upturned noses and sunken, slitted eyes. Both features connote the superior sensory perception associated with leadership. Carved kinsu for smoking tobacco similarly underscore status by serving as emblems of clan headmen and regional chiefs.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th–20th century

Medium

Wood, hide, clay, oil patina stain

Culture

Yaka peoples

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Purchase, Nelson A. Rockefeller Gift, 1969