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African Nupe terracotta pot / 20th century/Geometric decorative ceramic
$1,500
£1,143.33
€1,318.71
CA$2,130.45
A$2,289.39
CHF 1,228.39
MX$26,967.63
NOK 15,445.66
SEK 14,109.51
DKK 9,855.50
About the Item
This impressive jar is an unglazed terracotta vessel believed to have been made by the Nupe people of central Nigeria in West Africa. Its impressive size, measuring 32.2 cm in diameter, 39.5 cm in height, and weighing 4.9 kg, along with its unique decoration and design, make it a highly valued piece of folk art.
The Nupe people, an ethnic group living in the Niger River basin, boast a long history of pottery. Their pots and vessels, primarily crafted by female potters, are traditionally hand-formed and engraved with patterns and designs before firing. Nupe pottery serves a variety of purposes in daily life. It is used to store water, grains, and other necessities, and is also an important part of local cuisine, ideal for slow-simmering soups, stews, and other dishes. However, rather than being used for everyday life, this pottery likely served as tribute, a display of personal wealth, or as a bride price.
This vase is covered with continuous circular lines, wavy patterns, and engraved lines, and the body is decorated with diamond-shaped inlay-like painting. The application of the patterns evokes a sense of geometric order, creating a design that blends ethnic spirituality with the artisan's aesthetic sense. The texture of the clay remains on the surface, contributing to the vase's unique character and natural elegance.
It is in remarkably good condition overall, making it a recommended piece for interior décor. This vase was previously owned by a Japanese collector.
A similar piece was exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and we have included it here as reference.
Its primitive yet sophisticated appearance quietly exudes a foreign cultural presence even in modern spaces, bringing African folk art into a more familiar setting. While it has a striking presence on its own, simply adding dried flowers or other ornaments makes it a beautiful piece.
A true art piece that combines local history and culture with the powerful form of its individual form. We highly recommend it for anyone interested in African or primitive art.
Size: Diameter 32.2cm x Height 39.5cm
Weight: 4.9kg
Product Number: PO373
- Dimensions:Height: 15.56 in (39.5 cm)Diameter: 12.68 in (32.2 cm)
- Style:Other (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:20th century
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Sammu-shi, JP
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU5487247242862
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: senzoku, Japan
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