Cosmetic

Shapes of Kula paste. Rectangular shaped, ends slightly project outwards, molded pigment. Five vertical lines carved on each end; body of piece is ornamented with concentric carvings; zigzag pattern carved on all four sides of piece; one horizontal line carved across the back.

Made from camwood (Baphia), an important article of commerce. The wood is allowed to decay and then rubbed with water on a stone to form a paste which is molded into cakes. The Bushongo, especially the men, use scrapings from these mixed with palm oil to paint their bodies. It is usually done rather sparingly, excpet for dances.It is usually the mother of the family who paints her husband and sons, or her brothers. An infusion of camwood is used to dye cloth.

Similiar to AF575