Mangbetu Figurative Wine Vessel

Studs ring its belly like a spiked collar around a very calm face.

This figurative vessel was made in terra cotta by Mangbetu artists of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, in the 20th century. Head-shaped Mangbetu vessels are commonly associated with palm wine and with the prestige of the royal court. The face has a narrow nose and a smooth, elongated head wrapped with an incised band across the brow. Rows of ridged lines and a necklace of raised bumps circle the rounded body, with spiky knobs around its widest point.

About ten inches tall. Fierce body, serene head.