Dogon Ceramic Vessel, Mali

No decoration, no apology. Just a perfect round of peach-colored clay.

This terra cotta vessel was made by Dogon potters of Mali, West Africa, in the 20th century. Jars like it are commonly used in Dogon households for water and storage. The form is a nearly spherical body with a low, thickened rim around a dark mouth. A faint band of fine impressed texture circles the middle, and two small dark marks sit low on the belly. The surface is dusty salmon and cream, powdery in places, with a soft, chalky bloom.

About 17 inches tall and 21 across. A plain-spoken piece that makes the shelf look better organized.