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Kuba

Clysters (Fing Bukaan)

Kuba, Early 20th century

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Kuba

Clysters (Fing Bukaan)

Kuba, Early 20th century

Physical Qualities Wood, 27.8 H x 9.3 Diam. cm.
Credit Line Anonymous Gift
Object Number 2002.127
Used as enema funnels, these carefully adorned objects seem unlikely candidates for works of art. However the attention to detail and skill of the craftsmanship speak to the emphasis Kuba artists and patrons place upon quality pattern-work and also to the significance of the healing arts in Kuba culture. The bumps carved skillfully in high relief on one clyster refer to the weevil, an insect whose representation is reserved for Kuba royalty and nobility. The interwoven geometric patterns on the other clyster are representative of the complex designs found in both Kuba sculptural and two-dimensional arts.
Karen Milbourne, BMA, "Meditations on African Art: PATTERN," March 12-August 17, 2008

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