Mbwoongntey or libation cup from the Kuba people of the Republic of Congo, Central Africa

Here's a Toast to...

The alleged Holy Grail, known as the Infanta Dona Urraca, the Lycurgus Cup, Warren Cup, and for that matter, the Stanley Cup, America’s Cup and even the World Cup; all have one thing in common. They represent something significant. The latter three represent winning and all it entails. The Holy Grail represents sacrifice. The Lycurgus Cup represents ancient mastery of modern technology; and the Warren Cup is revered as a masterwork of erotic art. Like many other cups, they are not purely functional. Like all great objects they have been assigned meaning far beyond the ordinary.

This libation cup from the Kuba people once held palm wine during ceremonies

This week’s New Arrival features a wooden cup from the Kuba Kingdom, located in the Republic of Congo, Central Africa. The Kuba Kingdom was created in the 17th century when nineteen separate ethnic groups were united under one king. The art and meritorious principles of the kingdom remain to this day. Although this cup once held palm wine, it was valued as a prestigious object because it contained far more than a mere libation. Inside was found generosity, loyalty, appreciation, inclusion, thoughtfulness and understanding – meaningful traits worth toasting in all cultures.    

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Read more about these ceremonial cups in this weeks blog.