© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University. Photo by Michael McKelvey.

ClassificationsAfrican Art

Vessel

Place CreatedNigeria, Africa

CultureNupe

Date20th Century

MediumCeramic

Credit LineAnonymous gift

Dimensions15 1/2 x 13 in. (39.4 x 33 cm)

Object number2004.016.038

Label TextThe surface of this vessel is covered with calligraphic patterning that is characteristic of the Nupe style. Potters draw on a shared decorative vocabulary of incised bands, crescents, diamonds, and zigzags, but configure them in unique ways for each vessel. There is considerable variety in the quality of line used to create the decorations on the pots, this example displays fine, controlled patterns in contrast with the thicker, deeper lines and the free-form gestural styles seen on other examples. Such variations in surface design reflect the work of different groups of potters, each of whom specialize in the production of particular types of vessels.
Exhibition HistorySpirited Vessels: Creation and Ritual in African Ceramics, Michael C. Carlos Museum, February 7 - April 11, 2004
Published ReferencesMCCM Newsletter, March - May 2004.

ProvenanceEx private collection, United States, purchased from African dealers between 1994 and 2001.

Status

Not on view

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