Nupe Incised Water Vessel

The Nupe people of Nigeria were touted as some of the finest ceramicists in Africa. Everyday objects, like this water vessel received detailed attention. The vessel's varied textures are an integral part of its utilitarian design. The patterns and bands were engraved to give the drinker a better grip, creating rich, handworn texture. Jagged lines, helices, bands, and dimples combine to form an interwoven series of surface patterns that add rich texture to its simple, sculptural form.