This vintage wooden vessel with handle originates from Ethiopia and was traditionally used by the Borana people. Such vessels played an essential role in daily life, used for scooping, storing or pouring water, milk or fermented drinks.
Carved from a single block of wood, the vessel features an integrated handle that is both functional and visually balanced. Over years of use, the wood developed a deep natural patina, shaped by touch, time and daily rituals.
Today, this Borana vessel is appreciated as a sculptural decorative object. Displayed on a shelf, table or pedestal, it brings warmth, texture and authenticity to interiors inspired by wabi-sabi, minimalism or ethnic layering.
Each piece is entirely unique.
The Borana people belong to the Oromo group in Ethiopia. The word spelled 'Borana' is pronounced with the final vowel silent. It refers to the people or their language and also means 'friend' or 'kind person'.They are semi-nomadic herders. A Borana hut is made from wood and skins. During a move the hut is dismantled and everything is loaded on camels and donkeys. When the family arrives at its destination, all the women immediately start the construction of the huts. It is also the duty of women to draw water, collect firewood, fumigate or sterilize containers for keeping milk fresh, milk the animals and feed the children to sleep.
