Three fertility dolls "mwana hiti" ·  Tanzanie, Kwere · ID: 3031052

Description

wood, brown patina, typical form, different size, min. dam., minor missing parts;
the father of a young initiate “mwali” gives order for carving a “mwana hiti” figure, afterwards it is given to the clan leader who places it near ancestor figures in order to make their power passing over into the doll. After a further special treatment the girl receives the doll. In the following time of isolation the doll is dressed, fed and caressed like a child.