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Dhil from Somaliland – a decorative vessel used to carry milk or subaag (Somali traditional gee) as part of the nomadic way of life. Purchased as a souvenir by Shamis Younis from Butetown on a visit to Hergeisa, Somaliland, in about 2015.

The dhil is carved from coconut. It is made in two parts. The larger base has a circular foot tapering out to open up wide enough at the top to enable a bowl to be carved out of the centre. The lid is a smaller version of this base, inverted and fitted into the larger bowl. Both sections have been stained to a dark brown inside and out and then some areas have been cut back to reveal lighter wood below and form a decorative pattern. Leather strap has been attached using nails to hold the lower section and enable carrying of the assembled vessel.