Jar - Terracotta - Ritual Vessel

Fine African Terracotta Ritual Vessel with Salamander Motif.

Origin: West/Central Africa (likely Cameroon Grassfields or Nigeria)

Period: Early 20th Century

Material: Hand-coiled Terracotta with dark pigment/fire-blackened finish

Dimensions: Height 13.5 cm | Base Diameter 24 cm

A compelling and robustly potted terracotta vessel, featuring a low-slung, bulbous body and a wide, flared rim. The exterior is characterized by a rich, tactile surface texture, decorated with a series of conical "wart" protrusions around the midline—a common stylistic element in ritual pottery from the Cameroon Grassfields, often symbolizing fertility or protection.

The primary decorative focus is a high-relief salamander (or lizard) applied to the shoulder. In many African cultures, the lizard is a symbol of life, regeneration, and the link between the earthly and spirit worlds. The vessel's surface retains a dark, encrusted patina, likely the result of traditional pit-firing and the application of organic vegetable dyes or smoke-seasoning.

Condition Report
Overall: Very Good antique/vintage condition.
Structure: Solid and stable; no cracks, hairlines, or significant chips to the body or rim.
Detail: The body of the salamander is well-preserved; however, the head is missing (as is common with high-relief elements on ethnographic pottery). The weathered surface and minor pigment loss are consistent with age and traditional use.

Important Points;
Authentic Aesthetic: Strong sculptural presence with a "primitive" folk-art appeal.

Symbolism: The zoomorphic salamander motif adds significant interest for collectors of ethnographic art.

Display Quality: The wide diameter and low profile make it an excellent cabinet piece or tabletop focal point.

This vessel likely served as a Prestige Ritual Container, used within the royal courts or secret societies of the Cameroon Grassfields. Its form and zoomorphic decoration indicate it was designed to hold sacred palm wine or medicinal preparations, acting as a functional tool for both physical healing and spiritual protection.

Shipping with track and trace.Of course very carefully and safe packaged.Item can be picked up in Ekeren (Antwerpen,Belgium).