A large hand-carved rice and grain storage vessel from Nagaland in Northeast India, dating from approximately the 1930s–60s.

Originally made as a practical household object, the vessel would have been used for storing rice, grain and other dry foodstuffs. It is carved and hollowed from a single substantial section of Hollock wood, with an internal depth of 53 cm and a thick, irregular rim that clearly reveals the substantial nature of the original timber. 

The vessel has a simple cylindrical form, raised from the ground on four short integral feet. Its proportions are slightly broader and shorter than the other example we currently have available, giving this piece a more compact and robust appearance.

The surface retains the marks of its making and many decades of use. Variations in the colour and texture of the Hollock wood run around the entire body, while the uneven rim and hollowed interior preserve the evidence of its hand-worked construction. Nothing about the piece feels overly refined, which for us is an important part of its appeal.

Although originally made for the storage of rice and grain, the simplicity and scale of the vessel allow it to work equally well today as a sculptural object, container or planter.

Two closely related vessels are currently available, each individually hand carved and differing in its proportions and surface. This is the shorter and broader of the two examples. The first and final photographs show both vessels together for comparison.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

We offer local, national and international shipping.

Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.