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- Culture:West African / Akan / Ashanti Style
- Material:Solid Brass / Bronze
- Type:Kuduo Vessel / Ritual Box / Lidded Canister
- Region of Origin:West Africa (Purchased in Niger)
- Time Period Manufactured:Mid-to-Late 20th Century (Acquired in the 1990s)
- Handmade:Yes (Traditional Lost-Wax Sand Casting)
- Weight:1.3 kg (Approx. 2.86 lbs)
- Dimensions:5" Height (6.5" total height including lid handle/statue) x 5" Diameter
📝Item DescriptionAuthentic Vintage West African Hand-Cast Brass Kuduo Box / Lidded VesselUp for sale is a beautifully crafted, heavy West African brassKuduovessel. This piece carries excellent provenance, having beenpersonally purchased in Niger during the 1990s.Design & Symbolism:
The standout feature of this container is its incredibly detailed, hand-embossed lid. It features four prominent symbolic creatures deeply rooted in West African tribal folklore and Akan proverbs:
- The Central Scorpion:Representing defense, power, and unexpected strength.
- The Large Crocodile:Symbolizing adaptability and community.
- The Serpent / Snake:Wrapping along the edge, signifying guardianship and patience.
- The Mudfish / Frog:Positioned directly by the integrated loop handle, representing survival and prosperity.
The cylindrical body of the canister features beautiful geometric repoussé waves and concentric arch patterns, resting on three traditional hand-attached cup/bun feet.Craftsmanship & Condition:
Weighing a substantial1.3 kg (nearly 3 pounds), this is a heavy, solid piece of metalwork. It was created using traditionallost-wax sand castingmethods.
- Exterior:Displays a rich, authentic aged patina with beautiful golden undertones and natural dark oxidation in the crevices that highlights the relief work.
- Interior & Bottom:The inside and underside are completely unpolished and raw, showing the rugged texture, pitting, and scale left behind by the traditional casting mold. The underside of the lid features the original, asymmetric hand-soldered flange bars to keep the lid seated.
Dimensions:
- Diameter:Approx. 5"
- Canister Height:Approx. 5"
- Total Height:Approx. 6.5" (including the loop handle on top)
This is a spectacular, genuine piece of African metalwork perfect for collectors of tribal art, ethnographic artifacts, or as a striking bohemian statement piece for home decor.Please review all photos closely to appreciate the hand-carved textures and vintage condition. Shipped securely and promptly.