Vessel (Ukhamba)

Description

Clusters of raised welts known as warts (amasumpa) are among the most typical forms of Zulu pottery embellishment. The decoration may echo the scarification patterns that once adorned the bodies of Zulu women or the herds of cattle owned by a wealthy family. The Magwaza family of potters uses a unique means of producing the welts or bumps seen here: pushing them out from the inside of the container rather than applying clay to the exterior.

Provenance

Unknown owner, near Kranskop (or Pongola), South Africa, by 2001 [see note in curatorial file]; sold to David Roberts, South Africa, by 2001; sold to Douglas Dawson Gallery, Chicago, IL, 2001; sold to the Art Institute, 2003.

Vessel (Ukhamba)

Northern Nguni

Late 20th century

Accession Number

180973

Medium

Blackened terracotta

Dimensions

50.8 × 50.8 × 50.8 cm (20 × 20 × 20 in.)

Classification

vessel

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States

Credit Line

Charles R. and Janice Feldstein Endowment