Antique East African Milk Vessel Lidded Gourd Ethiopia Somali Leather Hide 16"

An impressive antique East African pastoralist milk container, most likely Ethiopian (Borana/Oromo) or Somali, early to mid 20th century. Carved from a large gourd as a hollow vessel with a separate, snug-fitting domed lid, and decorated overall in block-stained maroon/red ochre and black.

The body is bound in raw goat hide strapping with the hair still attached in many areas — wide encircling hide bands, hide-stitched seam reinforcement, and a braided leather carrying handle — plus a single fine band of decorative beadwork at the shoulder. The interior shows the dark, smoked patina characteristic of traditional milk vessels, which were treated with embers to preserve and flavor the milk.

Measurements: 16" tall with lid x approximately 7" diameter.

Condition: Very good antique condition with wonderful honest wear from genuine use — supple-to-stiff aged leather, surface patina, and expected scuffs. The lid fits snugly. Please see photos, which form part of the description.

A sculptural, museum-quality ethnographic object with tremendous presence — for the African art collector or a striking organic accent in a modern interior.