The Mangbetu stood out to European explorers
because of their elongated heads. Traditionally, babies' heads were
wrapped tightly with cloth in order to give them this distinctive
appearance. The practice began dying out in the 1950s , but because of this distinctive look, it is easy to recognize Mangbetu figures in African art.
Pipes were used by the chiefs and high ranking officials
as a status symbol and prestige object.
Height of pipe: 8 ¾" x Width: 2" x Depth: 2 ¾".
It is mounted on a customized wooden base, on which it stands 9 ¾" in height.
