KUBA, Kasai region, Democratic Republic of Congo. Jute cloth, raffia, cauri shells, glass beads. In the Kuba kingdom, ceremonial occasions called for ostentatious demonstrations of wealth and status through dress and other attributes. This important 'Yeemy Mambolmashet' belt was part of the king's parade dress. Wrapped around the waist, it had a strong visual and symbolic impact thanks to the interlacing "Imbol" motifs and the white and blue pearls. L. 186 cm (approx).