African Mbiu Horn Instrument

c. 1900
$1,680 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 2.25" D: 14.0" H: 6.75"
Materials
Horn
Collection #
CAA1408
Estimated Shipping
$75

Crafted from a hollowed buffalo horn, this graceful object is a side-blown instrument known as a mbiu, used within Swahili-speaking groups of east Africa. Unlike the ornate siwa horns held by chiefs or kings, often of lavishly carved ivory, the mbiu is typically used by a messenger to signal an imminent public announcement and draw the attention of a crowd. This straightforward purpose means the horn is simply carved as a single-pitch instrument, with an emphasis on a clear and consistent sound. We've elevated this horn on a custom steel stand to present it as a sculptural object with clean lines and a beautifully aged texture.

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Suzanne Lovell | Suzanne Lovell, Inc.

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