Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

Dark, ribbed belly rises to a tall trumpet neck and a flat-topped spout

This kendi, or ritual water vessel is from Java, Indonesia, and dates to the early 20th century. It is terra cotta. The kendi is a spouted vessel without a handle, found across Southeast Asia, and it is generally filled through a small neck opening and poured without touching the lips. Shallow vertical ribs shape the lower body, which pinches in to a flaring foot. A tall, thin neck opens like a trumpet. A short spout with a button-like tip points left. Very dark brown with faint pale flecks. It is 6.5 inches wide, 5.25 deep and 7.25 high.

Ribbed like a melon and dressed for an evening out.