Makonde Terra Cotta Dog Fetish

A dog, a cord and one pale bead. Protective things are often modest.

The Makonde of Tanzania made figures like this to hold protective or spiritual power, and the materials attached to them, cloth and beads among them, were often part of the purpose. This small terra cotta dog dates to the 20th century. The body is long and straight on four short stocky legs, the tail upright, the muzzle narrow and pointed, the ears small and pricked. A fine cord at the neck carries a single bead.

The surface is dark and encrusted, a rough crackled layer of brown and gray, with small chips showing lighter clay. It has seen use. Let it keep watch.