Mambila Ceramic Figurative Vessel

Wings of coil and a crest like a cockscomb.

Mambila potters of Cameroon, Central Africa, made this terra cotta vessel in the 20th century. Such figurative vessels are commonly associated with ritual contexts. A crested head with a wide open mouth sits above two long, looping arms that curl around the shoulders and meet in front. The body is patterned with studs and rings, with lighter ribs and darker spaces between. Its surface is rough and tawny brown.

About 14 inches tall. It looks as though it is about to take flight.