Artwork Page for Lidded Pot

Details / Information for Lidded Pot

Lidded Pot

1900s

Southern Africa, South Africa, Zulu, mid-20th century

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Medium
Terracotta and plant fiber
Measurements
Diameter: 45.7 cm (18 in.); Overall: 33 cm (13 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 1999.13
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Description

This large, beautifully shaped vessel was used for the serving of beer, an essential component of Zulu hospitality. Undecorated vessels were for private household use, and ornamented examples were reserved for guests. Zulu pottery is produced by women, and is typically thin-walled, with a burnished black surface. Decoration may be incised around the shoulder, as in this example, or may consist of raised bumps that resemble body scarification. The basketry lid protects the vessel's contents from flies or debris; contemporary pot lids are often woven of telephone wire with a colorful plastic coating

Lidded Pot

1900s

Southern Africa, South Africa, Zulu, mid-20th century

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