Snuff Container

late 1800s or early 1900s
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Did You Know?

The tobacco product snuff was stored in decorative, yet useful, containers like this one.

Description

Snuff containers made from a mixture of hide, earth, and blood constitute a very rare type of object in the artistic production of southern Africa. The specific gourdlike shape is an even more unusual occurrence. Its materials and purpose refer to the communication between animals and humans.
Snuff Container

Snuff Container

late 1800s or early 1900s

Africa, Southern Africa, South Africa, Xhosa-style maker

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