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Vessel

A work made of ceramic.

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  • A work made of ceramic.

Date:

Mid–20th century

Artist:

Bamileke
Cameroon
Coastal West Africa

About this artwork

Pottery holds an important place in life across Cameroon. Throughout the mountains and grasslands of the country, large storage containers and smaller serving vessels are employed in the ritualized tradition of making and pouring beer and palm wine. This vessel has generous proportions, with a wide, flared lip and delicate incised details on its bottom sections. The vessel was most likely used to hold liquids in order to keep them cool before serving. The bottom portion of the vessel has an even, roulette-impressed pattern, and the middle section is defined by a subtle design of angled lines separated into three rows, over which additive elements are arranged. The angularity and tack-like additions on this middle section add an element of dynamism to the vessel’s relative simplicity.

Status

Currently Off View

Department

Arts of Africa

Culture

Bamileke

Title

Vessel

Place

Cameroon (Object made in)

Date  Dates are not always precisely known, but the Art Institute strives to present this information as consistently and legibly as possible. Dates may be represented as a range that spans decades, centuries, dynasties, or periods and may include qualifiers such as c. (circa) or BCE.

1925–1975

Medium

Ceramic

Dimensions

H.: 35.5 cm (14 in.)

Credit Line

Purchased with funds provided by Mrs. Joanne Nagel Shaw

Reference Number

1979.534

Extended information about this artwork

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.

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