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.

Figure depicting two figures intertwined: the lower figure on one side is resting on one arm and one knee, legs outstretched and feet grasping the neck of the upper figure which leans over it. A single arm ends with fingers that grasp the tail of the upper figure. The body is semi-humanoid in form, but the head is elongated and reptile-like, and the tail of the upper figure is clasped in its mouth. The upper figure is composed of a reptile-like head, one arm, and a body which curves into an elongated tail. Incising indicates that the body is covered in hair, and the teeth and eyes are emphasized.