Fertility doll "mwana hiti" · 

Tanzania, Kwere · ID: 3038402

Description

wood, matt, spotty patina, remains of pigments, abstract form, split crested coiffure, min. dam., traces of abrasion;
Zaramo female initiates keep such figures during their period of seclusion and coming out ceremonies. After the ceremony the young women wear the “mwana hiti” around the neck. The doll is a kind of substitute child, until the woman will have a “real” one.