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Rare Tutsi Prestige Bottle — Museum-Quality Weaving (Rwanda, 20th Century)
$4,804
£3,558.52
€4,000
CA$6,573.07
A$7,152
CHF 3,786.89
MX$86,043.41
NOK 48,085.12
SEK 43,994.51
DKK 30,483.27
About the Item
Rare Tutsi Prestige Bottle — Museum-Quality Weaving (Rwanda, 20th Century)
Origin: Tutsi people, Rwanda
Period: Early 20th century
Material: Woven vegetal fibre (likely raffia or grass)
Dimensions: Height 33 cm, Diameter 7.5 cm
Condition: Excellent; no restorations, stable fibre integrity
Provenance: Alain Guisson, Belgium
Registration: AHDRC #0007850
Publication: Featured in Tribal Art Magazine, Issue #35, Summer 2004, p. 91, fig. 19
Description
An exceptional example of prestige basketry from the Tutsi of Rwanda, this bottle demonstrates the refined aesthetic and technical mastery for which Tutsi ceremonial objects are renowned. Entirely encased in a tightly woven sheath of vegetal fibre, the form is both elegant and purposeful—its elongated silhouette and finely executed tapering neck suggesting its use in elite contexts.
The surface is adorned with a dynamic, wave-like motif in dark and natural tones, evoking traditional symbolism associated with water, movement, and status. The complexity of the weaving technique, along with the purity of form, reflects the artistic sophistication found in the ritual and domestic arts of the Tutsi aristocracy.
Such bottles were not utilitarian containers but served as visual signifiers of wealth, rank, and cultural identity. They were likely displayed within noble households or used in significant ceremonial exchanges.
Provenance
Recognition
This piece comes from the esteemed collection of Alain Guisson, a noted authority and collector of Central African art. It has been documented and published in the renowned Tribal Art Magazine (issue #35, 2004), affirming its authenticity and historical value. Additionally, it is formally registered in the African Heritage Documentation and Research Centre (AHDRC), under entry number 0007850.
Remarks
A true collector's piece, this prestige bottle represents an increasingly rare type of museum-quality woven art from the Great Lakes region of Africa. Highly suitable for institutional acquisition or inclusion in an advanced private collection of African art or design.
- Dimensions:Height: 13 in (33 cm)Width: 2.96 in (7.5 cm)Depth: 2.96 in (7.5 cm)
- Style:Tribal (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:20th century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. normal age traces.
- Seller Location:Bilzen, BE
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU10361244221962
About the Seller
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