Pair of spears; Africa, Kuba, 20th century.

Pair of spears; Africa, Kuba, 20th century.
Cast iron and wood.
Measurements; 129 x 13 x 2 cm; 116 x 9 x 2 x 2 cm; 152 x 25 x 14 cm (base).
Kuba art is one of the best known in the area. It developed from the beginning of the XVII century, and reached its peak in the second half of the XIX century. Kuba art manifestations are numerous and diverse, and include decorative arts, textiles, masks, ceramics and wood carving. Kuba art must be understood within the rigid environment, loaded with symbolic ritualism, that surrounded the court. The Kuba were a kingdom especially fond of crowns, thrones and royal drums, and also of certain types of masks that, apart from the secret societies, served as official ornaments.