Ritual Bowl

Igbo, Izzi region, Nigeria,
Early 20th century

Provenance: Old New York collection

This distinctive bowl’s design is based on transformation.  At the top a large raised crocodile straddles the surface. Its head just meets the vessel’s large opening. Upon closer examination, a second human-like face appears by focusing on the crocodile’s lower feet which also represent eyes, its head becomes a nose, and the container’s large opening acts as this second face’s mouth. The bowl is in excellent condition and it still retains an earthy encrusted surface.  No definitive research has been done to confirm the exact function of these types of vessels.