Kwere Zaramo fertility doll
€160.00
Ritual dolls in African art
A wooden figure of a female represented in a highly abstract manner. The head is mostly taken up by the elaborate hairstyle which consists of two large crests to the top and a wedge shape to either side of the head. The face is indicated by a small nose and open mouth. The thick neck rests on flat shoulders and the body is column shaped with breasts and navel, the waist depicted as a flaring skirt to the base.
The kwere people of Tanzania create these figures for exclusive use by females during initiation rituals associated with puberty. It is thought that they represent significant ancestors who guide the initiates through the seclusion of the rituals that they undergo. Smaller figures are also worn on the body as amulets, whilst larger ones are provided with separate seats and sceptres of insignia.
Shipping fees
01733
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 13,5 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Franco Maria Ricci, Italy
- Condition
- Excellent
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Ritual dolls in African art
A wooden figure of a female represented in a highly abstract manner. The head is mostly taken up by the elaborate hairstyle which consists of two large crests to the top and a wedge shape to either side of the head. The face is indicated by a small nose and open mouth. The thick neck rests on flat shoulders and the body is column shaped with breasts and navel, the waist depicted as a flaring skirt to the base.
The kwere people of Tanzania create these figures for exclusive use by females during initiation rituals associated with puberty. It is thought that they represent significant ancestors who guide the initiates through the seclusion of the rituals that they undergo. Smaller figures are also worn on the body as amulets, whilst larger ones are provided with separate seats and sceptres of insignia.