Tutsi Rattan Ceremonial Calabash

A belly like a ripe fruit, and a neck like a swan.

Tutsi makers of Rwanda, East Africa, fashioned this ceremonial calabash from gourd and rattan in the early 20th century. Gourd vessels of this kind are often associated with milk and with hospitality in the region, and the rattan lid is woven to fit. The body is round and full, in glossy reddish-brown with bold dark vertical bands. A tall flared neck is capped by a woven disc with a dark pattern. The surface shows small scuffs and fine age marks.

About 10 inches tall. Display it alone and let it round out the shelf.