Clay Mkaramo figure. Cylindrical figure, with flared, circular base. Perforated white bead embedded near the head, above two pointed protrusions, representing breasts. Impression on the top of head, possibly from an additional missing bead. A rounded protrusion near the base representing the navel. [IL [OPS Move] 18/5/2017]

Collection type: Object
Description: Clay Mkaramo figure. Cylindrical figure, with flared, circular base. Perforated white bead embedded near the head, above two pointed protrusions, representing breasts. Impression on the top of head, possibly from an additional missing bead. A rounded protrusion near the base representing the navel. [IL [OPS Move] 18/5/2017]
Long description: Mkaramo figure used to teach morals to girls in puberty rituals. [IL [OPS Move] 18/5/2017]
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, Material Bead, Process Moulded, Process Perforated, Process Blown
Dimensions: Height: max 67 mm, Depth: max 25 mm, Width: max 25 mm
Object numbers: Accession number: 1958.11.2.375 Other numbers: 449 478
Research and responses: Figurines from Tanganyika reads : ... [See 1958.11.2.1 for complete entry] ... [Retrospective number:] 478 [female symbol] 449. Pembeleza. Wife should use tact and affection in dealing with her husband.