Small Kamba milk gourd – Kenya – decorated calabash, leather and glass beads Details Origin: Kenya People: Kamba Material(s): Calabash, leather, glass beads, European button Dimensions: approx. 40 cm high Period: mid-20th century, probably 1950s–1960s Provenance: Collected locally in Kenya by the present owner in the early 1990s Description A richly decorated Kamba calabash from Kenya, used in the same functional sphere as the better-known Maasai milk gourds. This example is especially appealing for its unusually small format and for the richness of its decoration. The calabash itself is covered with pyrograved geometric and animal motifs, in keeping with the Kamba decorative tradition. The object is further enhanced by leather elements decorated with coloured glass beads. The leather reinforcing band around the neck is ornamented with beadwork and includes a European button, adding a small but expressive detail to the composition. The nature and colours of the beads suggest an old example, probably dating from around the 1950s–1960s. The stopper, also made from calabash, is itself pyrograved and fitted with a leather sleeve decorated with beads. Together, these details give the object a strong visual presence despite its modest size. A very attractive old Kamba milk gourd, appreciated for its unusual scale, its lively pyrograved decoration, and its beautiful combination of calabash, leather and beadwork. Condition Good condition overall, with wear consistent with age and use. Indigenous repair. Small chips to the neck. Beautiful old usage patina. Please refer to the photographs. Included The object only. No stand included.