Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

Wide, low vessel with a bird-like beak and a flat-lipped neck

This kendi, or ritual water vessel is from Java, Indonesia, and dates to the early 20th century. It is terra cotta. On Java, water vessels have long been used in daily life and in ceremonies, where water is commonly associated with purification and hospitality. Smooth, reddish-brown surface with a gloss on the upper shoulder and darker shading below. A broad, flattened body sweeps to a beak-shaped spout at left, with a short neck topped by a wide, layered lip. It is 7 inches wide, 6 deep and 5 high.

A small pot with the posture of a duck at rest.