It is a Handmade Clay Pot of the Ao Naga Kukne tribe, and this is a very fine example of an indigenous craft whose significance was tinged with the daily life and practices of the tribe. Mostly, Ao Nagas are found in Mokokchung district of Nagaland, which is a state in the northeastern part of India Whose people are known to have such a rich tribal heritage and artï. The pot is black in color and made entirely by hand using clay from the locality. Normally the black color is produced by either baking or firing under stringent conditions, sometimes in the open fire pits, which harden the clay and give it a very smooth, burnished surface.
The designed object is distinctly thicker in its middle part than both the base and opening, thus facilitating storage and cooking of the food efficiently. The base is circular and flat to ensure stability when placed on surface or hearth. Amongst these exceptional characteristics of the pot is its open-ended circular rim that provides a perfect grip and makes it easy to put the lid on. It is also beautifully decorated using cane strips wrapped around its body. The decoration helps in making the pot attractive while it also serves the purpose of keeping it from cracking or breaking; giving extra fastening and strength. Above it runs a prominent ridge around its outer surface, which provides added strength as well as beauty for the pot. This generation pots today is to be found in many museums like that of Indian Museum, Kolkata which is a tribute to the Ao Naga tribe and the culture they symbolize.