Chokwe, Angola
Circa 1900
Wood, brass
Length 26"
Provenance: English trade
The body of this carved wood pipe is modeled in the form of a flintlock rifle, with the stock, barrel, trigger guard, and breech each clearly articulated. Dense rows of crosshatched and zigzag relief carving cover the barrel and stock, and brass fittings encircle the breech area, one stamped with an incised X. The warm brown surface shows an even patina consistent with age and handling.
Surmounting the muzzle end is a standing female figure with a sensitively carved face, defined breasts, and an elaborate coiffure rendered with fine incised lines. Rifle form prestige objects appear in Chokwe material culture as markers of status and authority, absorbing the symbolic power of the firearm into an established tradition of carved staff and scepter forms. The figure and rifle body are carved from a single piece of wood and joined seamlessly at the muzzle.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Chokwe, Angola
Circa 1900
Wood, brass
Length 26"
Provenance: English trade
The body of this carved wood pipe is modeled in the form of a flintlock rifle, with the stock, barrel, trigger guard, and breech each clearly articulated. Dense rows of crosshatched and zigzag relief carving cover the barrel and stock, and brass fittings encircle the breech area, one stamped with an incised X. The warm brown surface shows an even patina consistent with age and handling.
Surmounting the muzzle end is a standing female figure with a sensitively carved face, defined breasts, and an elaborate coiffure rendered with fine incised lines. Rifle form prestige objects appear in Chokwe material culture as markers of status and authority, absorbing the symbolic power of the firearm into an established tradition of carved staff and scepter forms. The figure and rifle body are carved from a single piece of wood and joined seamlessly at the muzzle.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
