Teke Vessel with Loop Handles

Smooth as an old saddle, and the color of one.

Teke potters of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, hand-built this terracotta vessel with loop handles in the 20th century. Such jars were commonly used for water or other household liquids. The faceted neck flares at the top, and two high, rounded loops frame it. The deep red-brown body has a fine crackled texture over a soft polish, with a few paler marks along one side. A flared foot rests on a thin base ring, and the whole piece feels evenly weighted.

About eleven inches tall. Looks good full or empty.