Baganda Terra Cotta Ceremonial Pot

Twenty inches of pot, and a face looking out from the neck.

Pottery has a long history in the Buganda region of Uganda, where vessels were made for everyday use as well as special occasions and ritual. This ceremonial pot, made by the Baganda in the 20th century, has a tall flared neck above a broad shoulder, narrowing to a low slightly flared foot. On the neck, a simple face in low relief: round eyes, a defined brow, a small nose and mouth. Below, rows of stepped ridged relief wrap the shoulder like layered folds.

The surface is smoky brown, matte and evenly worn. It watches the room, and says nothing.