Lobi Terra Cotta Vessel

Scratched arches in pale lines, running around dark clay like a procession in no hurry.

Lobi potters of Burkina Faso made this broad terra cotta vessel in the 20th century, sixteen inches high and eighteen across. Vessels like it served the household for carrying and storing water, grain and other provisions, and some were set aside for use at shrines. A short, slightly flared neck rises from full shoulders ringed with fine incised lines. Below, a band of nested arches circles the body. The surface ranges from deep brown to near black, with lighter spots and scuffs from use.

Give it a hearth, a landing or a low table.