Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

Squat drum of a body with two little chimneys and a platter-lip neck

This kendi, or ritual water vessel is from Java, Indonesia, and dates to the early 20th century. It is terra cotta. Terra cotta is low-fired earthenware clay, which stays porous and is valued for water vessels because evaporation through the walls tends to keep the contents cool. Warm brown, softly burnished. A broad, short body with straight sides carries a tall slim neck topped with a wide, flat rim. Two small pointed spouts sit at the shoulders, with chalky pale marks near the base of one. It is 6.75 inches high and 5.25 in diameter.

Low to the ground and taking itself seriously.