Large Authentic Zulu Ukhamba Beer Pot Clay Pottery Vessel South Africa Zig-Zag For Sale

VINTAGE SOUTH AFRICAN ZULU
UKHAMBA CLAY BEER POT
LARGE 9 1/4" SIZE

Available for purchase isa vintage "ukhamba" or ritual beer vessel made and used by the Zulu people in South Africa. Ukhamba is derived from two words: ukukhama (which means to squeeze out or compress) and bamba (to hold in place or receive).Virtually every Zulu home contained a number of beer pots of all sizes as consumption of fermented beer was a part of a person's diet. They were also used during communal and ritual gatherings, such as weddings, funerals, and other change-of-life rituals.Ukhamba are rimless vessels with no handles that were passed around among all present during these gatherings.Larger beer pots were also used to fetch water.Ukhamba are made of coil-built clay that is burnished and fired in an open pit. The surface is either incised or decorated with raised bumps known as "amasumpa" (warts). The bumps provide a strong contrast to the pots’ highly burnished smooth surfaces. Amasumpa symbolize beauty and represent body scarification markings.Pots decorated in this manner were typically usedonly by tribal chieftains or highly regarded elders. This pot has raised bumps in a zig-zag pattern that represents Shaka Zulu's deadly sword. One side also has a cross symbol, possibly representing Christianity (the predominant religion of Zulus), or it might be a navigational symbol.This pot is medium-sized and has an ovoid form with a flat base. It measures about 7 3/4" tall and 9 1/4" at the widest part of the body. The top opening is 4 3/4" in diameter. The pot has a beautiful, aged patina that is not seen on newer pots. The top rim has a few very minor nicks imperfections, which isquite common since these pots were used as utilitarian items. I purchased this Zulu beer pot at a recent estate sale. I'm not certain, but I believe it dates to the mid-20th century, perhaps earlier or slightly later. This ukhamba is guaranteed authentic and made by the Zulu people in South Africa.Please feel free to check my positive response and buy with confidence from a trusted seller.Condition of this ukhamba beer pot is EXCELLENT. The top rim of the thin-walled vessel has just a few very minor nicks. There are no cracks or other damage. The surface has a wonderful, aged patina. Overall, this Zulu beer pot looks great and displays well. It would make a fine addition to any African art collection. Please take a close look at the many photos I've provided and judge condition for yourself. I'm confident you'll be very pleased with this purchase.If you collect vintage African items, particularly Zulu art and pottery, don't miss your opportunity to purchase this offering. Beer pots of this age and quality are not often available on the market, so this is arare treasure.My Buy It Now price of $235 is a great bargain. Zulu beer pots of similar age and size in comparable condition have been valued between $1,000 and $4,500. So, buy this ukhamba now before someone else beats you to the deal!While you're here, please check out my other listings by clicking on the link below. Whenever possible, I'll be happy to reduce shipping for combined purchases.See my other listings for more great items!

Payment is due immediately after purchase. Virginia residents will need to add 5.3% state sales tax to the final purchase price. E-bay has also started charging sales tax in many other states recently, something beyond my control.For international purchases, the buyer is responsible for all customs fees. The declared value listed on the customs form will be the final selling price of the item. I will not list the item as a "gift" to avoid customs charges.

If you're the lucky buyer of this Zulu beer pot, it will come to you VERY carefully packaged via USPS Ground Advantage or Priority Mail (your choice). Shipping will be actual charges from zip code 22980 (packaged weight between6 and 7 pounds). Use the shipping calculator below to determine exact mailing cost to your location. International buyers will need to e-mail me for a shipping quote.

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