Mambila Ceramic Figurative Vessel

A potbellied pot with a face, a pursed mouth and plenty of opinions.

Mambila potters of Cameroon, Central Africa, made this figurative vessel in terra cotta in the 20th century. Anthropomorphic vessels are commonly associated with ritual use and with ideas of the body as a container. A tall, slender neck serves as the head’s crown, and below it a face with a round open mouth, raised brow and pale eyes looks out. Raised, pale lines trace the shoulders, and rows of dots run across the wide belly. The surface is dark gray-brown with reddish highlights and chalky traces.

About 14 inches tall. The kind of host who keeps a straight face.