Figurative cup Kuba, Congo, early 20th century Wood 25,5 cm height Good Contidion. Provenance: Private collection, France. Nice Patina. The wooden cups of the Kuba ethnic group, native to central Africa (now the Democratic Republic of Congo), are much more than simple utilitarian containers: they represent a profound cultural, artistic, and symbolic expression. Hand-carved by skilled artisans, these cups are usually made from sturdy local woods and are characterized by their elegant shapes and balanced proportions. One of the most distinctive features of Kuba cups is the presence of human or geometric figures carved in relief, which often serve as the cup's support. These figures are not randomly decorative: they symbolize ancestors, leaders, or ideals of status, fertility, and protection. In many cases, the cups were associated with political and social power and were used by chiefs, nobles, or high-ranking individuals during important ceremonies. The decoration reflects the Kuba aesthetic, known for its taste for symmetry, repetitive patterns, and detailed handiwork. Each piece is unique and conveys the identity of the clan or artisan who created it. Today, Kuba wooden cups are valued both in their original cultural context and in museums and African art collections, where they are recognized as testimonies to a sophisticated and deeply symbolic artistic tradition.