Djerma Water Vessel

The Djerma people of Niger are well known for their gracefully shaped and delicately painted water containers. The surface paintings are applied after firing with all natural pigments. The graphic, geometric designs closely relate to patterns that are woven in their textiles. This elegant pot is beautifully defined by its long neck accentuated with stripes and well proportioned handles. The top rim is not smooth, designed with four ridges to help support other stacked vessels. The once vibrant bodice with geometric shapes pointing to its waist has mellowed with years of use over fires that have left marks of maturity. It is a very rare and exceptional example that was acquired from a Chicago collector of contemporary and African art who had it in their collection for decades.