Globular vessel with twine impressions

12th–16th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 341

Since the first millennium ce, skilled female potters in what is today central Mali have produced a diverse repertoire of fired ceramics, including household items, burial urns, and representational devotional works. This vessel represents one example of the various elegant, hand-modeled Middle Niger ceramics. Beyond its utilitarian form, it features a careful decorative finish. The artists created impressed designs that imitate woven basketry by repeatedly stamping braided fibers around the vessel's exterior.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Globular vessel with twine impressions
Artist: Middle Niger artist(s)
Date: 12th–16th century
Geography: Mali, Inland Niger Delta region
Culture: Middle Niger civilization (?)
Medium: Terracotta
Dimensions: H. 12 × Diam. 10 in. (30.5 × 25.4 cm)
Classification: Ceramics-Containers
Credit Line: Bequest of John B. Elliott, 1997
Object Number: 1999.47.69
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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Long-necked vessel, Middle Niger artist(s), Terracotta, Middle Niger civilization — Long-necked vessel
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Seated figure, Middle Niger artist, Terracotta, Middle Niger civilization — Seated figure
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