Nyakusa Storage Vessel on Mount

This balanced terracotta pot was used as a storage container by the Nyakyusa people of Tanzania. Bands of red slip pattern the upper portion of the squat vessel, connected by gracefully arched diagonal lines. The lower half is darkened from the firing process and textured with finely incised lines to provide a sure grip. Masterfully formed with thin walls and fine clay, the gently tapered container was originally used for fermenting cassava and for storing beer and water. Simply displayed on a custom steel mount, we love this vessel for its graceful swell and richly textured surface.