Indonesian Kendi or Ritual Water Vessel

Bulb-nosed spout sticks out like a gourd under a pointed onion 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. Glossy red-brown with pale streaks from turning marks. A smooth, bell-shaped body rises to a narrow neck capped with a pointed, onion-shaped finial. A rounded, gourd-like spout bulges out sideways near the shoulder. It is 7.5 inches wide, 4.5 deep and 8.5 high.

A pot with a nose like that has surely got opinions.