Tutsi Rattan Ceremonial Calabash

A little triangle of weaving crowns this dark, polished gourd.

This ceremonial calabash was made in gourd and rattan by Tutsi artisans of Rwanda, East Africa, in the early 20th century. Gourds like this are commonly linked with milk storage, and the woven lid is part of the design. The body is plump and glossy in warm mahogany, with subtle lighter patches near the shoulder. The neck is long and slim, rising to a woven lid with a dark triangular motif at its center.

About 10 inches tall. It reads as sculpture, not storage.