English: Jar, Chewa peoples, Lilongwe area, Malawi, Late 20th century, Ceramic, resin

This large ovoid vessel was handbuilt by a Chewa woman and fired at a low temperature. The potter achieved the aesthetically vibrant surface by splashing a vegetable decoction on the body immediately after firing. The dark spots were caused by firing the jar in a kiln with reduced oxygen. Although the dark spots were unintentional, they add to the pot's aesthetic effectiveness. These vessels are typical of pottery found throughout Africa that function as containers for foodstuffs. Chewa women keep such vessels near the cooking area and used them to store locally brewed maize beer (kuchasu). Kuchasu is consumed before traditional ceremonies of the Gule Wamkulu (Great Dance), which is performed at funerals and initiations.

(National Museum of African Art)