Figure

The Makonde were a matriarchal, agricultural society. Traditionally, it is thought, the sculpture of the Makonde was restricted to ceremonial and ritual goods. Shetani spirits or creatures, now seen in contemporary Makonde sculpture, were probably unknown before the advent of commercial art production in the mid-1950's. Tales of encounters with these rarely seen spirits or creatures were part of Makonde mythology and folklore and may have served as artistic inspiration for the pieces.

Commercial art.

Partially humanoid and bird-like figure. Doubled over, the torso slants down towards the rectangular base. neck extends into the head which rests turned under on the base. Stands on one human leg. Arm on the right side extends backwards balancing a gourd-like object on the back. Pendulous breast protrudes from the torso. On the left side, there is a bird wing in place of an arm. Head has a large gaping mouth, a tongue ringed by twelve shell or bone teeth, raised eyes in both sides, and one large ear on the right side. On a lighter-coloured wood base.