Mambila Ceramic Figurative Vessel

Ridged arms loop like handles around a face you cannot quite see.

Mambila potters of Cameroon, Central Africa, made this figurative vessel in terra cotta in the 20th century. Vessels of this type are commonly associated with ceremonial use. A spout-like head with an open mouth sits between two big loops of clay that curve forward. The globular body is divided in two, one half tan and the other pale grey, with small bumps running along the center.

About 14 inches tall. Two-toned, and rather clever about it. Different from every side.