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 human figures, one larger with a raised left hand, the left foot resting against the calf of the right leg, as well as hair and a beard that protrude in front of the face, and the other smaller figure standing on its head in front of the larger figure. Both figures are on an irregularly shaped base.