Very rare ritual pot made of wood lavishly decorated with an elaborate wicker design weaved around it and leather straps. The pot handle is also made of leather with a fine decoration made of cowries shells. The base of the pot, made of weaved wicker, of round form, is also decorated with cowrie shells. Height: 20.8 cm. Obvious signs of age and use, otherwise very good condition. NOTE: African cowries, marine shells with profound cultural significance, have fulfilled multiple roles in African history and culture. They have served as a widely accepted form of currency, facilitating trade across vast regions due to their durability and relative scarcity. In spiritual contexts, cowries are revered as sacred objects, employed in divination, traditional healing and religious ceremonies, synbolizing prosperity, fertility and divine protection.