Ethiopian Small Milk Jug with No Lid

This early 20th-century Ethiopian milk jug exemplifies the artistry and craftsmanship of traditional pastoral communities in the Horn of Africa. Slightly smaller in scale and without a lid, the vessel was handwoven from natural fibers and fully covered in leather, then reinforced with additional leather straps for strength. It was designed for the storage and transport of milk, a vital resource in both daily life and ritual practice.

The jug features tightly woven basketry beneath its leather covering, providing a durable internal structure. Aged leather bands wrap the body, adding both protection and reinforcement. Decorative elements around the neck and base include cowrie shells and beads, materials often associated with wealth and fertility in East African cultures. The use of repurposed components, including elements from flashlights and plastic, reflects adaptive and resourceful craftsmanship.

Richly patinated from use and age, the surface carries a warm, timeworn character, with the leather showing areas of wear consistent with handling and long-term use. The combination of organic fibers, leather, and adornment highlights both the functional and aesthetic qualities of the piece.

A compelling ethnographic object, this Ethiopian milk jug speaks to enduring traditions of craftsmanship and cultural expression, making it an appealing addition for collectors of African art and utilitarian design

The leather strap is broken at the top. 

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