Mangbetu Figurative Wine Vessel

For wine, a head. For prestige, a long head.

The Mangbetu of the Democratic Republic of Congo are well known for the elegant elongated head and fan-like coiffure, and their potters celebrated that ideal in vessels topped with human heads. This terra cotta example dates to the 20th century. A long neck rises from a round bulbous body to a serene face with narrow eyes and full lips, crowned by a tall coiffure that flares into an open rim.

Fine stippling covers coiffure and body. A band of stamped circles rings the neck, and arching grooves sweep the chest. It rests on a metal base. Pour with some ceremony.