Djenne Ceramic Fetish Vessel

A pale clay cylinder studded with round bumps, like a very shy cactus.

This terra cotta fetish vessel is Djenne, from Sanga Area, Mali, West Africa. Djenne terra cotta is known for its long tradition in the inland Niger Delta region of Mali, where earthenware figures and vessels have been made for many centuries. A narrow, tapered form with a flared lip, its sides pitted and rough. Three or four rounded bosses run down the front in a column, and finer impressions texture the rest. The color is creamy buff with pinkish patches and minor chips. It is 3.25 inches wide, 3 deep and 5 high.

Soft color, rugged skin, no complaints.