2-736-267 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Oliphant (Side-Blown Trumpet), late 1800s-early 1900s. The elephant tusk used to make this trumpet was either shaved down or originated from a younger animal. The instrument is held horizontally when blown, as its mouthpiece is located in the tusk's inner curve. Trumpets were used as musical instruments on various occasions, and ivory examples seem to have been reserved for more solemn circumstances, such as funerals. However, short trumpets decorated with human figuration may have been made for export to Europe. Whether this assertion applies to the present object cannot be confirmed, though its honey-coloured patina testifies to long-term handling. The seated male wearing a shell necklace and a European cloak and hat depicts a Yombe ruler, signifying the acceptance of outsider influence.