 
Zaramo Mwana Hiti Figure
Tribe: Zaramo
Country: Tanzania
Material: Wood, beads.
Size: 7" (17.8 cm) Tall
Condition: Superb.
Status: Private Collection: Massachusetts, USA
Mwana hiti figures are found among of a number of
peoples in Tanzania. Mwana hiti are also called trunk figures, and
depict in a highly stylized way the torso of a female figure. The name
has been translated as "daughter of the throne" or "female chile of the
one who is enthroned". The figure is said to be both male and female.
Male because of the general phallic shape and female because of the
breasts. Mwana hiti figures are given to a girl by her father's sister
when it is time for her to begin the seclusion as a part of her
initiation.
*A History of Art in Africa - isbn: 978-0131833562 |
