Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

Two plump, pointed gourds flank a slim neck like ears on a very round head.

This kendi or ritual water vessel is from Java, Indonesia. It is terra cotta. Java has a long tradition of pottery, and vessels for water have been used both in daily life and in ceremonies and offerings. Dark rounded base supporting a tall central neck and two bulbous, orange-brown side chambers, each ending in a short tip. Fine combed lines texture the lobes, and the neck has a small rimmed mouth. It is 7.5 inches wide, 5 deep and 6 high.

Symmetry, mostly, with a tiny sly sense of humor.