Ishungu, snuff gourd

Notes

These delightful objects, sometimes referred to as the “Fabergé eggs of Africa,” embody the Japanese concept of Aji (味) — literally “flavour” or “character.” In material culture, Aji describes the distinctive beauty and depth an object acquires through age, handling, and use.

Delicate decorative and geometric patterns are created by inserting short pieces of brass or other wire, as staples of varying lengths, into the surface of the container. These snuff gourds were treasured personal possessions, used for holding and sharing powdered tobacco — a practice that has been part of southern African life since tobacco’s introduction in the 16th century.

Provenance

Colin Sayers Collection.