Mambila Ceramic Figurative Vessel

Mouth open, and it is not clear whether this is a song or a warning.

Cameroon, Central Africa, is the home of this Mambila figurative vessel, made in terra cotta in the 20th century. Such vessels are often associated with ceremonial use. A small animal-like head with a wide open mouth, a crest and round ears tops a rounded body, with a brown surface softened by pale chalky patches. Broad shoulder panels are edged with raised ridges, and a fine central line runs down the front.

About 13 inches tall. Compact, loud in spirit, quiet in practice.