Mkaramo clay figure. Roughly cylindrical figure that restricts slightly between the roughly ovoid head, and the main body. Curves backwards slightly, and flares at one end to form a flat base, with no legs. Two prominent semicircular ears, and two prominent, rounded projections representing breasts or arms. [IL [OPS Move] 25/4/2017]

Collection type: Object
Description: Mkaramo clay figure. Roughly cylindrical figure that restricts slightly between the roughly ovoid head, and the main body. Curves backwards slightly, and flares at one end to form a flat base, with no legs. Two prominent semicircular ears, and two prominent, rounded projections representing breasts or arms. [IL [OPS Move] 25/4/2017]
Long description: Mkaramo figure used to teach morals to girls in puberty rituals. [IL [OPS Move] 25/4/2017]
Geographical reference: Tanzania, United Republic of
Africa > Eastern Africa > Tanzania, United Republic of; Pangani
Cultural groups: Zigula
Person: Field collector Ralph Esmond Selby Tanner; PRM source Ralph Esmond Selby Tanner
Date / Period: Date made: Before 1958
Date collected: From 1951-1958
Acquisition information: Donated: 1958
Materials and processes: Material Clay, Process Handbuilt
Dimensions: Height: max 51 mm, Depth: max 28 mm, Width: max 22 mm
Object numbers: Accession number: 1958.11.2.79 Other numbers: 79 182
Research and responses: Figurines from Tanganyika reads : ... [See 1958.11.2.1 for complete entry] ... [Retrospective number:] 182 [female symbol]79. Chambanda. When people are about, don’t hide or girl will not get a husband. Atakuwa na siri gani.