Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure. No definition between body and head. The figure has no legs, there is a flared flat circular base. There are two prominent, triangular projections representing breasts or arms. A projection near the base, potentially representing the navel. No facial details. Large flared ears. [BH [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]

Collection type: Object
Description: Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure. No definition between body and head. The figure has no legs, there is a flared flat circular base. There are two prominent, triangular projections representing breasts or arms. A projection near the base, potentially representing the navel. No facial details. Large flared ears. [BH [OPS Move] 27/4/2017]
Long description: Mkaramo figure used to teach morals to girls in puberty rituals. [BH [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: Depth: max 33 mm, Width: max 32 mm, Height: max 54 mm
Object numbers: Accession number: 1958.11.2.127 Other numbers: 127 230
Research and responses: Figurines from Tanganyika reads : ... [See 1958.11.2.1 for complete entry] ... [Retrospective number:] 230 [female symbol]127. Tongotongo. Good girl should not sleep too much or her husband will leave her because no meals.