This old bowl from Nagaland (north-east India) is a traditional utensil that has been handcrafted from wood. Such bowls were used in everyday life, but often also had a ritual or social function, for example during communal meals or ceremonies. Characteristic features include the robust shape and raised base, which provides stability and elevates the bowl off the ground. The visible signs of wear and the austere design reflect the functional aesthetics of the Naga cultures, in which craftsmanship, durability and symbolism are closely intertwined. Today, objects of this kind are valued as ethnographic and decorative pieces with a strong cultural narrative.