Mambila Ceramic Figurative Vessel

Spiral eyes, a little mouth, and a diamond of raised pattern on the belly.

Cameroon, Central Africa, is the source of this Mambila terra cotta vessel, made in the 20th century. Pots of this type are commonly linked with ritual and festive use. A straight-sided rim crowns a stern head with swirled, ringed eyes and prominent ears. A round mouth opens at the center of the face, framed by a beaded line. Below, a lozenge of fine raised dots fills the dark, rounded body, flanked by small spirals.

About 14 inches tall. Watchful from any shelf.