Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

Stacked rings, a puffed neck, and a spout that points with total confidence

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. Dark, glossy surface with lighter brown scuffs. A broad, rounded body sits on a flared foot with a deep waist. A thick neck rises to a knobbed finial. A short spout angles sharply from the shoulder. It is 5.75 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 6.5 high.

Built like a stack of tidy pillows with a nose.