Effigy Vessel c. 20th century

The "Effigy Vessel" is a 20th-century ceramic sculpture from an unknown artist that stands at 18 inches tall. The vessel is crafted from terracotta and features four sculpted figures in a kneeling posture. The figures appear to be holding the vessel aloft, with their heads and arms extending outward. The vessel has a bulbous body with a circular base, creating a sense of stability. This piece exemplifies the rich tradition of figurative sculpture in African art, where vessels often served not only practical but also symbolic and ritualistic purposes.