Makonde Ceramic Ceremonial Vessel

A round-bellied pot with a head on top and hands to match.

Makonde potters of Tanzania, East Africa, made this ceremonial vessel in terra cotta in the 20th century. Makonde figurative work is commonly associated with ancestors, and this vessel combines a pot form with a human likeness. A small, finely scored head sits above a ridged neck, with two arms rising along its sides to the ears. The wide, round body has an open mouth at the center. The clay is a pale tan, with a soft, worn surface and faint incised lines.

About 10 inches tall. It looks back at you, so choose its spot with care.