Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure, with little distinction between the head and body. The figure has no legs, with a flared, flat, circular base. There are two prominent, triangular projections representing breasts or arms, and a slight, rounded projection near the base, possibly representing a navel. No facial details. [IL [OPS Move] 2/5/2017]

Collection type: Object
Description: Mkaramo clay figure. Cylindrical figure, with little distinction between the head and body. The figure has no legs, with a flared, flat, circular base. There are two prominent, triangular projections representing breasts or arms, and a slight, rounded projection near the base, possibly representing a navel. No facial details. [IL [OPS Move] 2/5/2017]
Long description: Mkaramo figure used to teach morals to girls in puberty rituals. [IL [OPS Move] 2/5/2017]
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 24 mm, Width: max 18 mm, Height: max 36 mm
Object numbers: Accession number: 1958.11.2.143 Other numbers: 143 246
Research and responses: Figurines from Tanganyika reads : ... [See 1958.11.2.1 for complete entry] ... [Retrospective number:] 246 [female symbol]143. Mtoto Hana Matata. Good girl gives pride to her kungwi because her training has been successful.

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