Snuff Container

Item number K5.27 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

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Data
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Description

Snuff container in the form of an ox with a rough, studded body. The ox has long thin horns and small tail. A hole at the centre of the forehead that opens to a cavity inside the body of the ox.

History Of Use

For carrying snuff.

Specific Techniques

Blood and tissues scraped from the lining of an animal are mixed with a small amount of ochre or powdered clay to form a stiff paste. The paste is then spread over a pre-prepared clay model. When dry, a hole is cut for the opening of the snuff-box. The clay core is then removed through this opening.

Narrative

Provenance unknown, however the piece is thought to have originated from a South Nguni group: Xhosa, Mfengu, Mpondo, Mpondomise, Hlubi, Bhaca, Bomvana or Thembu people.