Vintage Beaded Maasai Calabash - Kenya - 52.2 Undressing These versatile pieces make exceptional

These versatile pieces make exceptional serving platters and styling boards

though all are very close to the one shown

They can be used as lamp shades

Beads like these have long served as a form of currency in parts of Africa

43cm tall × 9cm wide (base depth 9cm)

Vintage Beaded Maasai Calabash - Kenya - 52.2 Undressing These versatile pieces make exceptionalA vintage Maasai calabash from Kenya, formed from a naturally dried and hollowed gourd. Vessels like this were used to store and cool milk or water, and the surface carries a warm, honey toned patina from years of handling. Bands of traditional Maasai glass beads white, red and blue, threaded onto leather straps wrap the body, while older repairs in metal and fine wirework are left on show: in Maasai culture a break is mended with intent rather than