Mambila Terra Cotta Figurative Vessel

Covered in small pointed studs. Not to be touched lightly.

Mambila potters of Cameroon made vessels for household use and for ritual, some of them shaped with heads, limbs and other sculptural features that set them apart from everyday wares. This terra cotta example, from the 20th century, stands two feet high. The spherical body is covered entirely in small pointed studs. A long smooth neck rises to an animal-like head, its open mouth forming the spout, with small ears or horns. Two slender arms in relief reach up to grasp the neck.

Silvery highlights and earthy gray-brown tones. Weathered, and quite composed about it.