Teke Vessel with Loop Handles

Black below, rust above, with the line between them left visible.

This terracotta vessel with loop handles comes from the Teke of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Teke ceramics of this kind were commonly used to carry or store liquids. The upper body is red-orange and the lower half blackened, a contrast often produced by uneven firing. The shoulder is angled, with a band of stamped dots. A tapering neck carries a faceted rim, and two loops arch up from the shoulder. A pedestal foot completes it.

About twelve inches tall. A pot with a two-tone suit.