Museum Explorer
Tools and technology in Africa
Water pot
From: Tunis, Tunisia
Date: early 20th century AD
This water pot was made from clay which could have been mixed with straw or sand to make it stronger. After the pot was made it was fired, probably in a kiln, to harden it. Then it was decorated with patterns and beautiful Arabic writing from the Muslim holy book, the Qur'an. Lastly the pot was fired again to give it a smooth finish.
It can be very hot in Tunisia, so you would be pleased to have a drink from such a welcoming pot. It even has a strainer inside, to filter out grass and leaves.
