Mangbetu Figurative Wine Vessel

A head with a swept-back crown, set on a body that holds the wine.

Mangbetu potters of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made this figurative wine vessel in terra cotta in the 20th century. Mangbetu vessels are commonly modeled with elongated heads reflecting a famous custom of head elongation. The head rises from a rounded body decorated with incised chevrons and bands. The tall, flared coiffure forms the opening. The surface is a smooth, polished brown with a rich glow.

About eleven inches tall. A pitcher with fine manners.