CONGOLESE LUBA HEMBA GUNPOWDER BOTTLE OR FLASK. Luba powder container, specifically identified as a Luba or Luba-Hemba gunpowder bottle or powder flask. These containers are traditionally from the Luba or Luba-Hemba peoples of the Democratic Republic of Congo. They were used to hold gunpowder, which was a valuable commodity imported from Europe and often used for wooden rifles or in ritual contexts. The container is typically piriform (pear-shaped) and features a lid often surmounted by a sculpted figure, in this case, a seated female figure. The body of the container is often adorned with engraved decorative motifs, such as the cross-hatched patterns. - Height: (approx): 14 inches. Estimate $100-120
