This carved wooden bowl was made and used by the Turkana people of northwestern Kenya. It was used to hold liquids such as milk or water, as well as porridge. Its compact form and attached string allowed it to be easily carried or hung when not in use, supporting a nomadic way of life.
 
The wear patterns and interior markings indicate prolonged use. The faded repair work and discoloration at the rim reflect the bowl’s role as a practical, long-term household item. Like many utilitarian objects in Turkana society, it was maintained and reused over time rather than discarded.
 
The Turkana are semi-nomadic pastoralists whose economy is centered on livestock herding, particularly goats, cattle, and camels. They live in one of the most arid and remote regions of Kenya. Mobility, durability, and functionality are central to their material culture. Bowls such as this one reflect that context, combining function with traditional forms passed down across generations. They are part of everyday survival and social continuity within Turkana communities.