Cypriot Gourd Art Appraisal

Traditional Cypriot Pyrographic Decorative Gourd

This is a hand-decorated, dried organic bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria) of Mediterranean origin, specifically from Cyprus. The vessel features a bulbous body and a long, tapering neck characteristic of the species. The exterior surface is decorated using the pyrography (wood-burning) technique, which creates a rich, dark brown contrast against the natural golden-tan hue of the gourd's dried skin. The neck is adorned with intricate geometric patterns, including cross-hatched diamonds, triangles, and zig-zag borders. The central body features a circular vignette containing a map of the island of Cyprus, clearly labeled in English. Surrounding the map are folk-art depictions of a radiant sun, sea waves, a traditional sailing boat (dhow or caique style), and leaping fish. The craftsmanship indicates a refined folk-art style likely intended for the mid-to-late 20th-century souvenir market. Condition appears good with a natural aged patina and minor surface abrasions consistent with shelf wear. There is a slight darkening at the top of the neck where the stem was removed. The level of detail in the scorched etching indicates a skilled artisan. Such gourds were historically used as water or wine flasks but are now primarily decorative.