20th Century Tribal Zulu Ceramic Pot, South Africa

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20th Century Tribal Zulu Ceramic Pot, South Africa

About the Item

An exceptional Zulu beer vessel. This is the finest example we have ever owned. The pot has a satisfying form, is very large and has beautiful incised patterning. Zulu pot making is the sole domain of women. Pots are made by using multiple thin coils of clay. Potters use a variety of patterns to ornament beer vessels, the textures of which Stand in strong contrast to the pots’ highly burnished surfaces. Patterns often run in chains around the shoulders of a pot or take the form of large shapes placed in a pleasingly off-balance manner. Pots for brewing and storing beer are large, unembellished, and made of coarse clay. These vessels are kept in the dark, far back reaches of the house, in the sacred and private area called umsamo, that is visited by one’s ancestors. The more public containers for serving and drinking beer are made from finer clay and are blackened in a smoky reduction firing of grass or dung. Blackening signifies the association of pots with the ancestors and creates and environment that is more accessible to them. Serving beer to family and guests, therefore, is a meaningful gesture of hospitality and spiritual connection that is enhanced by the use of beautiful containers. The ukhamba, or serving pots, used at most gatherings are medium sized. They are attractively round with an unornamented lip, and the most accomplished pieces have very thin, evenly worked walls and a smooth, glossy surface. This pot was exhibited at the Neuberger Museum of Art, Purchase, New York and was published in Constellations: Studies in African Art, Vol.1. We guarantee the authenticity of all our objects.

Dimensions:
Height: 15 in (38.1 cm)Diameter: 22 in (55.88 cm)
Style:
Tribal (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Clay
Place of Origin:
South Africa
Period:
20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Mid-20th Century
Condition:
Minor losses. In excellent condition. Pot has a small chip on the lip.
Seller Location:
New York, NY
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU104801167894