Nupe Terra Cotta Water Vessel

Water is cooler in clay. Every household in central Nigeria knew it long before anyone invented the refrigerator.

This Nupe vessel, made in the 20th century and sixteen and a half inches tall, is a jar built for the job. The body is generously rounded, with a short neck and a flared, slightly uneven rim. Impressed zigzags and herringbone circle the neck and shoulder. Below, tall pointed arches of crosshatching alternate with smooth, polished panels.

The brown is deep and lustrous, lighter where the pattern catches the light. Set it on a floor and leave it empty. It looks thirsty anyway.