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

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

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