Early 20th Century. This is a block of red dye called a Tukula from the Kuba people of the Congo. It was compacted in blocks for trade. The red powder is highly prized as a skin treatment. It is used as an antiseptic, an anti-aging ointment, and for ceremonial body decoration. In Kuba culture, these blocks were often given as gifts at funerals. Guests would take them home to grind down and use the pigment to honor the memory of the deceased. Has some chips and areas of removed material. Previous provenance of a private dealer in San Francisco. We guarantee every item as described, and have 2-3 experts look at each item to come to a consensus. Please feel free to reach out at anytime with any questions, comments, concerns or issues. We ship in house and do what we can to ensure the shipping costs are as reasonable as possible.