Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

Hourglass body, tall pedestal neck, and a spout set like a periscope

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. Glossy blackened brown, smooth to the eye. A tall, narrow body flares at the top into a flat shelf, from which a tiered neck rises with a small flanged mouth. A short, angled spout leans on the shoulder. It is 5.5 inches wide, 4 deep and 7.25 high.

Tall, tidy, and slightly pleased to be seen from the side.