Chokwe Comb

Superb Chokwe/Lwena comb from the early 20th century, structured in three registers.
The seven teeth support a finely carved platform, decorated on both sides with a delicate geometric frieze.
The upper anthropomorphic figure, turned at a 90-degree angle, stands out for its striking naturalism, great elegance, and refined execution.

The contrasting honey-colored patina, enhanced with black tones on the face and headdress, gives the piece remarkable visual depth.
A symbol of rank and prestige, this comb once expressed the social status of its owner.

Through the exceptional quality of its carving and the subtlety of its details, this piece asserts itself as a rare and refined example within the known corpus of Chokwe and Lwena combs.

Date
Early 20th century

Provenance
British colonial collection, Jonathan Hope, London.
Vincenzo Casale collection, Brussels.

Dimensions
16 cm (6.3 in), 20 cm including base (7.9 in).

Condition
Museum condition.

Bibliography
Parures de tête, Hairstyle and Hairdresses, Musée Dapper, 2003.
Visions d’Afrique, Chokwe, B. Wastiau, 5 Continents, 2006.
Kisanola, Galerie Didier Claes, 2019.