Artwork Page for Water or Grain Vessel (chilongo chakumuto)

Details / Information for Water or Grain Vessel (chilongo chakumuto)

Water or Grain Vessel (chilongo chakumuto)

mid-1900s

Mozambique or Tanzania, Makonde-style pottery, unknown female ceramicist

Medium
Terracotta and colorant
Measurements
Diameter: 45.5 cm (17 15/16 in.); Overall: 35.5 cm (14 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 1998.151
Copyright
Copyright
This artwork is known to be under copyright.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

This vessel was originally used to hold water; its terracotta allowed water to stay cool naturally.

Description

This vessel's markings are linked to the body of the woman who once owned it. She commissioned a female potter to make the work. First, the potter coiled and stacked clay to hand-build its shape. Next, she covered it in a shimmery charcoal and earth wash before burnishing it (polishing). After firing, the potter incised it with motifs adapted from the owner's nkova (tattoos), which were applied to enhance her beauty. The Makonde word nkova can mean making designs on pottery or skin. Finally, the potter accentuated the incised motifs with a white clay wash that wears away with use. When no longer watertight, vessels like this become grain storage containers.

Water or Grain Vessel (chilongo chakumuto)

mid-1900s

Mozambique or Tanzania, Makonde-style pottery, unknown female ceramicist

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