Terracotta Container

Mambila, Nigeria-Cameroon border
Early 20th c.

This distinctive vessel is characteristic of the Mambila people, who reside in eastern Nigeria and across the Cameroon border. Made from black-brown terracotta, it features a striking spout in the form of a fantastical animal head with a large, gaping mouth and arms resting against its body.

A large opening on its back suggests it may have been used to insert ritual substances, possibly to charge or empower the object for ceremonial purposes. Traces of black and white pigment remain visible across the surface, hinting at its original decorative treatment. Mambila containers like this were likely used in sacred rituals and stored on shrines, serving a spiritual function within the community.