In the early to mid-20th century, a Zulu artist crafted this beer vessel from burnished earthenware.

As October arrives, it brings with it delightful aromas of pumpkin spice, the festive spirit of Halloween, and the jubilant vibes of Oktoberfest—celebrating everything beer-related! An ukhamba displayed at NOMA symbolizes the rich tradition of beer brewing, a craft that is predominantly overseen by women in southern Africa.

Low-alcohol sorghum beer has long been a vital component of nutrition in southern Africa and remains a choice offering for ancestors as well as a gesture of hospitality.

Many families even set up a small altar, known as umsamo, where they can present beer and meat to their ancestors.

Various types of vessels are designed for both preparation and consumption, serving a purpose during significant events such as funerals, weddings, coming-of-age celebrations, and other important transitional moments in life.

Smaller pots, like the ukhamba, are commonly shared among individuals, while larger vessels such as the iphangela can contain enough beer for an entire gathering, typically enjoyed using a ladle or cup.

This delicate, rimless ceramic piece showcases a deep, blackened glaze, crafted using coil-building techniques. Its surface is adorned with raised bumps known as amasumpa, skillfully applied by the artisans. In the Zulu-speaking areas of South Africa, this darkening connects the vessel to ancestors and spirits who are believed to prefer dimly lit spaces.

Additionally, the curved, geometric patterns that are either incised or impressed onto the surface of this vessel are a hallmark of the region’s artistry.

This design may evoke images of cow horns and the livestock owned by affluent families, while also drawing a profound connection to women’s physical forms and body modification practices known as scarification, which involves the permanent marking of the skin through cutting or branding.

Although these pieces are still crafted for home environments, a new audience has emerged that appreciates the visual appeal of ceramic beer vessels, with many female artisans successfully selling their works in contemporary art galleries.

Bowls intended for commercial markets, rather than spiritual use, are available in various shades of brown and black, and well-known families of female potters enjoy a reputation both locally and internationally.

Amanda M. Maples is the Françoise Billion Richardson curator of African art at NOMA.