Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

A stout bottle with a round head, small peg arms, and a faint face.

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. Gourd-shaped vessel in two stacked rounds, with a stepped cap on top and a softly marked face. Two small spout-like knobs sit on the upper body, and horizontal turning lines wrap the dark surface with orange blotches. It is 5 inches wide, 5.25 deep and 9 high.

Part vessel, part tiny person, entirely charming.