Mambila Ceramic Figurative Vessel

Hair like a hedgehog, eyes like pale coins, and a surprising calm.

Mambila potters of Cameroon, Central Africa, formed this figurative vessel in terra cotta in the 20th century. Figural vessels of this kind are often associated with ceremony. The head carries a cap of short spikes, with round white-rimmed eyes and an open mouth. Two broad, rope-edged panels sweep down the chest like a cape, and small ridged marks and orange touches decorate the body. The surface is dark, rough and slightly glossy.

About 14 inches tall. It stares politely and does not blink.