Feminine anthropomorphic vessel-Culture Mangbetu

Both pieces respond to the habitual model of a anthropomorphic ceramics that constitute one of the most representative productions of Mangbetu art. They comprise a vessel of rounded form, which appears to be, in this case, the body of a woman. For this reason, it includes breast and even in some pieces, some small arms, which in this case do not appear. The vessels are completed with a dolichocephalous head and the traditional hairstyle of Mangbetu women. The faces are realistic, with eyes divided in two by a fine central line, ample nostrils, sensual lips and partly open mouths which allow the teeth to be seen, something which is typical of Meje style ceramics. The surface of each recipient is decorated with geometric motifs-incised lines or geometric and, in some cases pointed forms, and especially oval or circular forms-which allude to the Mangbetu custom of decorating the body painting. At the back of each of the vessels is a handle, which joins the "body" to the neck of the personage. This responds-as occurs with the perforation in the upper part- to the utilitarian nature of these pieces, destined to hold water or oil or to contain palm wine or beer which was consumed during initiation rituals. They are made from clay blacked with graphite. The pigment is well preserved which is practically unique among objects of this type. The production of this type of anthropomorphic terracotta ceramics began in the first quarter of the twentieth century. The are traditionally modelled exclusively by women since this is considered to be a femenine task linked to their creative power and their role as provider to the clan. It is an activity that is transmitted from mother to daughter -indispensable for the storing of water and food-which is maintained today, although the artistic value of the pieces has been considerably reduced, a freer iconography also being introduced.