Djenne terracota vessel - Figure - Mali






Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
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Djenne terracotta vessel from Mali dating to ca. 1400–1450, in good used condition with minor signs of age and imperfections, 27 cm high, 13 cm wide and 13 cm deep, provenance Jean-Michel Huguenin Collection, Paris, sold with stand.
Description from the seller
Djenné terracotta pottery is typically handmade and features a range of shapes and sizes, from large storage jars to smaller ceremonial vessels. The pottery is often characterized by its smooth, reddish-brown surface and intricately moulded or sculpted details. The designs can include geometric patterns, human or animal motifs, and sometimes abstract forms. The artisans of Djenné use traditional hand-building techniques, such as coiling, and burnish the pottery for a smooth finish.
Historically, the terracotta vessels were used for practical purposes, such as storing water, grains, and other goods, but some pieces were also made for ritualistic or funerary purposes. The craftsmanship of Djenné pottery is an important reflection of the region's long-standing artistic and cultural traditions.
Provenance: Jean-Michel Huguenin Collection, Paris
Seller's Story
Djenné terracotta pottery is typically handmade and features a range of shapes and sizes, from large storage jars to smaller ceremonial vessels. The pottery is often characterized by its smooth, reddish-brown surface and intricately moulded or sculpted details. The designs can include geometric patterns, human or animal motifs, and sometimes abstract forms. The artisans of Djenné use traditional hand-building techniques, such as coiling, and burnish the pottery for a smooth finish.
Historically, the terracotta vessels were used for practical purposes, such as storing water, grains, and other goods, but some pieces were also made for ritualistic or funerary purposes. The craftsmanship of Djenné pottery is an important reflection of the region's long-standing artistic and cultural traditions.
Provenance: Jean-Michel Huguenin Collection, Paris
