Vessel – Bura – Terracotta – Niger

Little is known of the Bura civilization (ca. 3rd – 11th centuries) which was first discovered in 1975. Excavations began in 1983. Most of the objects dug up are terra cotta heads or vessels. The tall vessels were buried with the neck or opening down, usually contained remnants of cloth or objects probably associated with with funeral practices. Many were discovered by farmers digging in their fields, hence the tops broken by shovels.

These richly ornamented terracotta receptacles were mostly recovered in a remarkable state of conservation. Carbon dating has established their creation between III and XI century A.D. Used as funeral offerings, they were found buried with their openings facing down and filled with the deceased’s possessions, teeth, and a few key bones. This ritual shows the strong symbolic and indisputable belief of fruitfulness of life and death since after birth, rebirth would follow.

Provenance: former private collection from the Netherlands

Including professional custom made stand. The stand is attached to the terracotta vessel.