Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure with little distinction between the body and head. The figure has no legs, and has a flared, flat and circular base. Two prominent, ovoid projections representing breasts or arms, and two prominent and semicircular ears. [IL [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]

Collection type: Object
Description: Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure with little distinction between the body and head. The figure has no legs, and has a flared, flat and circular base. Two prominent, ovoid projections representing breasts or arms, and two prominent and semicircular ears. [IL [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]
Long description: Mkaramo figure used to teach morals to girls in puberty rituals. [IL [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]
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: Width: max 30 mm, Depth: max 22 mm, Height: max 52 mm
Object numbers: Accession number: 1958.11.2.116 Other numbers: 116 219
Research and responses: Figurines from Tanganyika reads : ... [See 1958.11.2.1 for complete entry] ... [Retrospective number:] 219 [female symbol]116. Mzuri Hajajua. Girl who admires herself without being instructed, is without proper character.