Mangbetu Figurative Wine Vessel

A tall fan of hair above a face worn warm by time.

Mangbetu makers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, shaped this figurative vessel in terra cotta in the 20th century. Head-shaped Mangbetu pots are often associated with court life, with their tall, flared coiffures echoing historic hairstyles, and are commonly used for palm wine. The headdress here flares like a basket, cross-hatched all over. The face is serious, with a flat nose and heavy lids. A beaded necklace and incised chevrons wrap the globe-shaped body.

About twelve inches tall. The tallest hair in the room.