Oliphant

17th century, inventoried 1642
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
In Europe beginning in the twelfth century, ivory horns decorated with carved decoration were produced in Italy as secular luxury goods. Although they take the form of a wind instrument, ivory oliphants were seldom played but rather acquired as prized possessions that became emblematic of wealth and power.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Oliphant
  • Date: 17th century, inventoried 1642
  • Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo; Republic of the Congo; Angola
  • Culture: Kongo peoples; Kongo Kingdom
  • Medium: Ivory
  • Dimensions: L. 27 1/8 in. (69 cm), Diam. 3 in. (7.5 cm)
  • Classification: Bone/Ivory-Musical Instruments
  • Credit Line: Linden-Museum Stuttgart, Staatliches Museum für Völkerkunde
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing