Earthenware jar

Africa, Algeria

This earthenware jar is extremely old. Women used to carry it on their backs to fetch water from a spring or fountain. The fine designs on it bring to mind the fertility of the earth and the fruitfulness of women, along with symbols of protection.

The winding lines and Vshaped figures symbolize the water that fertilizes the earth. The black dots arranged in triangles suggest fields.

  • How would you describe this jar to someone who has never seen me?
  • What do the geometric patterns suggest to you?
  • Conduct your own survey-in museums, in books or by talking to adults-to find other symbols for the relationship between people and nature.