Terracotta pot – Igbo – Nigeria

Wonderfull unique terracotta pot from the Igbo people of Nigeria.

Old Anthropomorphic or Zoomorphic Ceremonial or Medical Terracotta Vessel of the Igbo people of Nigeria.

Beautifully shaped as decoration of ancestors head.

Ceramic works from Africa can be loosely divided into two categories: terra cotta figurative art and earthenware vessels. In opposition to figurative art, ceramic vessels can be broken down into two sub-categories: utilitarian and ceremonial wares. It is possible to find examples that appear to combine the two major categories when encountering figurative vessels; yet, upon examination figurative vessels were almost always used in ceremonial contexts.

Anthropomorphic and figurative vessels occupy a unique place in African art. They display the balance between various realms – the utilitarian and ceremonial, secular and religious, and material and spiritual. The artistic ability and skill of the potters makes one want to call them sculptors; however, their creations are distinctly separated from figurative terra cotta sculpture by function and use. Half a world away from where they were created, African figurative ceramic vessels still display dignity, esteem and personality. Today, they are valued by collectors for their individuality, beauty, diversity, rarity and extraordinary design – qualities that fill these artworks to the brim.

Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany.