Tutsi Rattan Ceremonial Calabash

Slim in the shoulder, dark as strong tea.

Tutsi artisans of Rwanda, East Africa, made this ceremonial calabash from gourd and rattan in the early 20th century. Such containers are commonly linked with milk, and they were often cared for as valued household vessels. This one has a teardrop form, narrowing to a slender neck. The surface is a smoky gunmetal, striped with rust-red streaks that follow the curve of the gourd. A small round woven lid with a dark mark sits at the top.

About 10 inches tall. Elegant enough to need no flowers.