Prestige Adze c. mid 20th century

"Prestige Adze" is a ceremonial pipe from the Pende people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, dating back to the mid-20th century. The pipe is carved from wood and features a human head at the base of the stem, with a small hole for smoking. The head is adorned with a conical cap and a face with stylized features. This type of pipe is considered a prestige object, often used in important social gatherings and rituals. The adze, a sharp blade attached to the base of the pipe, is used for agricultural purposes. This adze is now on display at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.