Shipibo Vessel

Globular vessel with a high neck, and the upper half decorated in black geometric designs against a cream background. The rest of the jar is of a reddish color with no decoration. This type of jar is used to hold water and "masato" (a weak liquor made by fermenting the cassava plant). “Masato” is prepared by women in large quantities for social events and rituals. The designs on this ceramic object are related to the Shipibo world view, and in their view, the designs are "quené" (signs of ethnic identity). Shipibo ceramic is one of the most beautiful of the Amazon, and nowadays it is in great commercial demand. The sale of ceramics is the biggest source of income for the Shipibo, along with textiles and jewelry, all of which are made by women.