Description
This striking vessel is hand molded from terra-cotta clay by the Batwa (Pygmy) People from Burundi. It is marked by a large, beveled lip on top, around which lies a four-pointed star comprised of diagonal striations that function both aesthetically and to facilitate a hand grip while pouring or drinking. With a surface structure that is delicately textured, this vessel is employed for consumption of local wine in domestic contexts and during various cultural ceremonies. Bushera pots have a rounded body and a flat base that makes them stable for use. They often have a narrow opening at the top, which can be covered with a lid. The Batwa people use natural materials such as clay and cow dung to create their pots, giving them a rustic, earthy appearance that is in keeping with the Batwa’s close connection to the land and nature.