Woot, God on Earth

The Kuba Kingdom was a conglomerate of several smaller principalities of various ethnic origins that existed between the 17th and 19th centuries in the region bordered by the Sankuru, Lulua, and Kasai rivers in the heart of the modern-day Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Kuba Kingdom was renowned for its artistic and cultural achievements, which were facilitated by political stability and the efficient use of natural resources. The Kuba Kingdom was a hierarchical complex of councils and titled officials who advised the king and balanced his power. The Kuba people call themselves “the children of Woot” after their founding ancestor.

The Myth of Woot
According to Kuba Kingdom mythology, Woot was the first man and bringer of civilization. In the Kuba Kingdom creation story, Woot stole a basket from the creator god Mbwoom but then lost it. The basket was later found by a Pygmy, who gave it to the Kuba people. Woot is also said to have named each human, plant, and animal.

The Role of Woot in Kuba Kingdom Culture
Woot played a significant role in Kuba Kingdom culture. He was revered as a hero and praised as “God on Earth”. The Kuba kings were at the center of artistic innovation, and they commissioned local artisans to produce elegant items for display. Objects such as embroidered textiles, fiber and beaded hats, and wooden cups and containers became increasingly ornate and fanciful. The Kuba people also created masks and sculptures that represented Woot and his wife/sister, Nady Amwaash.

Kuba Kingdom Art and Woot
The Kuba Kingdom’s artistic achievements were facilitated by political stability and the efficient use of natural resources. The Kuba people were renowned for the refinement of decorative art objects created for members of the high ranks of their society. The Kuba people created masks and sculptures that represented Woot and his wife/sister, Nady Amwaash. The Ngady Mwaash mask represents the wife of Woot, who is also his sister. The Kuba people also created textiles made from vegetal fibers, bark, palm tree leaves, and raffia.

Conclusion
Woot played a significant role in Kuba Kingdom culture and mythology. He was revered as a hero and praised as “God on Earth.” The Kuba Kingdom’s artistic achievements were facilitated by political stability and the efficient use of natural resources. The Kuba people created masks, sculptures, and textiles that represented Woot and his wife/sister, Nady Amwaash. The Kuba Kingdom’s cultural and artistic achievements continue to inspire and fascinate people today.

References

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– Oxford Reference. “Woot Takes Language from the Fly, the Tortoise, and the Dog.” https://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/oi/authority.20110803124717841 
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– https://umfa.utah.edu/kuba-masks 
– https://theafricanhistory.com/2926 

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