Turkana Milk Container (“Akarum”) – Turkana – Kenya – Wood, leather & glass beads – 1960s HIGHLIGHTS • Classic Turkana “akarum” milk container, collected in situ (Kenya). • Carved from a single block of wood; elegant gourd-inspired silhouette. • Red ochre decoration and colourful glass beadwork (eastern Lake Turkana style). • Leather reinforcement straps for strength, hanging and transport. • Sold with a grass display ring (as shown in photos). DETAILS • Origin: Turkana people, northern Kenya (eastern shore of Lake Turkana, style) • Materials: Wood, leather, glass beads (with red ochre pigment) • Period: 1960s • Dimensions: H 45 cm • Provenance: Collected in situ INTRODUCTION Refined Turkana “akarum” milk container—both a functional object and a sculptural form shaped by nomadic pastoral life. CONTEXT / FUNCTION As nomadic pastoralists, the Turkana of northern Kenya produce primarily functional objects designed to be easily transportable and made from materials available in a harsh semi-desert environment. While domestic forms are transmitted through generations, each piece reflects the hand and skill of its maker. The akarum is considered the most elaborate Turkana milk container. Typically carved by women from a single block of wood, it is likely inspired by the calabash. The rounded body is hollowed using a long metal tool mounted on a wooden handle, while the upper cylindrical section serves as both lid and drinking cup. A stitched leather seal helps ensure a tight closure. AESTHETIC / TECHNICAL DESCRIPTION Decoration varies by region. On the eastern shore of Lake Turkana, examples are often embellished with red ochre designs applied over a darker surface and accented with glass beadwork, reflecting influences from neighbouring cultures. This container is further equipped with leather straps that reinforce the body and facilitate hanging inside the hut, as well as transport—such as securing it to pack saddles during seasonal movements. CONDITION Overall: very good, with visible age-related wear. • Beautiful patina of use; surface marks and abrasions consistent with long-term handling. • Old repairs and traces of practical use (as visible in photos). • Beadwork and leather elements show wear consistent with age; structure remains sound. INCLUDED Grass display ring (as shown in photos).