A rare Suku Anthromorphic Cup and A Suku Cup

kopa, the one of hemispherical form, the lip pinched at the center and pointed at the ends, the center carved in relief with an antelope horn, a slender handle at the bottom in the form of a human torso with abbreviated cubistic features; '390' on the base; fine and varied deep to medium brown patina. The other of hollowed, hemispherical form, the lip pointed at the ends and joined at the center and a figure in relief on either side; medium reddish brown patina.

The Brill drinking vessel is unusual and highly inventive in the carver's incorporation of an anthropomorphic handle. Suku cups were used for ritual palm wine drinking among high ranking men and chiefs. The drinking ritual was a sign of power and transmission of authority. The cups themselves were prized and it is forbidden to touch another's cup without permission (Bourgeois 1978: 76-77).