Gwayi Painted Vessel

Details

An old-world feeling blends seamlessly with the classic shape of the handcrafted, organic textured Gwayi Painted Vessel. This large terracotta vessel features a small, flared rim and a narrow base that becomes wider towards the top. A brown base color with an antique white painted finish allows for the warm brown to peek through across the surface, and adds to an aged appearance. This neutral piece is elegant layered with bold home decor pieces and filled with large branches or blooms.

Editors' Note

This piece is named for the Gwayi pottery traditions of Matabeleland, in southern Zimbabwe. Made from terracotta clay mined from the Gwayi River, the clay is finely ground, mixed with water and kiln-fired to create a marvelous array of creative, functional and beautiful wares. The region is home to a number of ethnic groups, including the Ndebele, once called the Amatabele, or “People with long shields.” The Ndebele nation began with Mzilikazi kaMashobane (1790-1868), a once honored lieutenant of Shaka Zulu who broke from the Zulu nation following attacks by Shaka against his family. The newly formed nation would battle effectively against both the Boer and British governments despite being forced to move several times before finally settling in modern-day Zimbabwe.