Sign In Sign Up

Terra Cotta

A1300-105
Kamana or Sago Bowl
Sawos people
East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea
20TH C.
Incised pottery with pigments
11.5'' DIA
$1,195

These food bowls, called kamana, originate from the Sawos people in East Sepik Province, Papua New Guinea. Women construct and fire the vessels while men decorate them using chip-carving techniques and natural pigment paints. Despite their elaborate decorations, the bowls are used for everyday meals, propped up by a circular ring of plaited cane. When not in use, they are kept inverted so their designs can be appreciated.