Coco Fesse vase - the most mysterious vase
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Introduction to Coco Fesse Vases
The Coco Fesse vase is a bold and sculptural piece of handcrafted pottery, originating from Bouaké, Ivory Coast, and crafted by the Tanou Sakassou artisan collective. Its curvaceous form pays tribute to one of nature’s most sensual wonders — the Coco de Mer nut, also called Coco Fesse, the largest seed in the world and a powerful symbol of femininity, fertility, and mystery.
The Story Behind the Name: Coco de Mer, the World’s Largest Nut
The Coco de Mer is a rare palm nut found only in the Seychelles. Each nut takes 6 to 10 years to mature and can weigh up to 25 kilograms, making it the largest and heaviest seed on Earth. But beyond its size, the nut is famed for its striking shape, which resembles a voluptuous pair of buttocks or a woman’s pelvis — hence the affectionate nickname “Coco Fesse” in French.
Historically shrouded in myth, this extraordinary nut has symbolized love, sensuality, and fertility, revered by sailors, kings, and poets alike. It is this natural form and rich cultural symbolism that inspired the Tanou Sakassou potters to create a ceramic tribute in the shape of the Coco Fesse vase — a celebration of womanhood and nature’s perfection.
What Coco Fesse Vases Are Used For
While rooted in traditional African pottery methods, Coco Fesse vases have found their place in contemporary design, admired for their organic lines, raw textures, and provocative beauty. These vases are used as standalone sculptural pieces, vessels for dried flowers, or simply as conversation starters that elevate any living space.
Who Coco Fesse Vases Are Made For
Coco Fesse vases speak to art lovers, interior designers, and collectors who value authentic, story-rich craftsmanship. They make meaningful gifts for weddings, housewarmings, and life transitions — honoring the themes of femininity, natural cycles, and creative force.
How Coco Fesse Vases Are Made
Each Coco Fesse vase is handcrafted from terracotta clay by women artisans in Bouaké, using traditional techniques. The form is shaped by hand, dried in the sun, and fired in open-air kilns. Some vases are burnished or smoked, giving them a rich, earthy patina. Every vase is unique, reflecting both the individual hand of the maker and the timeless shape of the Coco de Mer.
Where Coco Fesse Vases Are Made
These vases are made in Bouaké, in the heart of Ivory Coast, where the Tanou Sakassou artisan collective preserves local traditions of pottery and supports women’s empowerment through art. Purchasing a Coco Fesse vase helps sustain African artisan heritage while fostering economic resilience in local communities.
Conclusion
The Coco Fesse vase is not just a beautiful object — it’s a tribute to a natural marvel, a symbol of femininity and fertility, and a bridge between African craftsmanship and the secrets of the Seychelles. Whether as a bold art piece or a soulful home accent, each vase carries a story of nature, womanhood, and cultural pride.
