Horns made from tusks or horns of animals are common throughout Africa. This ivory horn is an example of such, ivory being highly sought after both within and outside of Africa due to its association with king-like wealth and power. Most ivory horns are carved or decorated in some fashion, like this one. They were historically used as trade items made for Europe or as symbols of royalty and power within sub-Saharan Africa.

Many sub-Saharan African horns are designed to be played from the side, with the user blowing through the hole at the tip and covering the end hole with their hand in different variations. The shape of these blowholes depended on region, but they are all typically played as a part of a royal ensemble. At one point they may have also been used in a military context.