Milk vessel - Ekyanzi - Hima - Uganda






Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 143727 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Milk vessel from the Hima of Uganda, carved in wood, indigenous name Ekyanzi, dating to the mid 20th century, 20 cm high, provenance: private collection, authenticity: original/official, condition: fair.
Description from the seller
Hima Ekyanzi Milk Vessel.
Uganda.
The "ekyanzi" is a traditional milk vessel used by the Hima people of Uganda, reflecting their cattle-herding culture. Made from wood or gourds, it is used to store, ferment, and serve milk, especially "amaata" (fermented milk), a dietary staple.
Ekyanzi vessels are treated with herbs or smoke to preserve milk and impart flavor. They vary in size and may be plain or decorated, often symbolizing wealth and cultural pride. These vessels play key roles in rituals, such as marriage ceremonies, and highlight the Hima’s deep connection to dairy and their heritage.
In essence, the ekyanzi is not just a utilitarian object but a cultural artifact, embodying the Hima people's values, traditions, and close relationship with their cattle-centered way of life.
Provenance:
Belgian private collection
Object type: milk vessel
Tribe: Hima
Material: wood
Height: 20 cm
The condition and potential fragments or signs of wear are documented in detail through presented photographs.
Shipment is included following further defined rates. Other delivery or pickup methods can be organised accordingly.
Seller's Story
Hima Ekyanzi Milk Vessel.
Uganda.
The "ekyanzi" is a traditional milk vessel used by the Hima people of Uganda, reflecting their cattle-herding culture. Made from wood or gourds, it is used to store, ferment, and serve milk, especially "amaata" (fermented milk), a dietary staple.
Ekyanzi vessels are treated with herbs or smoke to preserve milk and impart flavor. They vary in size and may be plain or decorated, often symbolizing wealth and cultural pride. These vessels play key roles in rituals, such as marriage ceremonies, and highlight the Hima’s deep connection to dairy and their heritage.
In essence, the ekyanzi is not just a utilitarian object but a cultural artifact, embodying the Hima people's values, traditions, and close relationship with their cattle-centered way of life.
Provenance:
Belgian private collection
Object type: milk vessel
Tribe: Hima
Material: wood
Height: 20 cm
The condition and potential fragments or signs of wear are documented in detail through presented photographs.
Shipment is included following further defined rates. Other delivery or pickup methods can be organised accordingly.
