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.

Incised humanoid figure on incised base attached to a lighter wood base. Figure has incised 'cap' on head. Head shape and facial features are sharply defined; eyes, cheeks, and chin protrude. Long narrow neck links head with smooth narrow body (torso); which curves at incised base, narrows, then connects and melds with back of head.