Mangbetu Figurative Wine Vessel

A swept-up hairstyle, closed eyes, and a belly stitched with diamonds.

Mangbetu artists of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made this figurative vessel in terra cotta in the 20th century. Mangbetu pottery is commonly associated with the elongated head and tall woven coiffure admired at court, and with serving palm wine. The head is crowned with a rounded, finely combed crest. The eyes are narrow and calm, and scarification lines mark the temples. A neck band of beads leads to a rounded body incised with triangular patterns.

About eleven inches tall. Elegant, with a hint of sleepiness.