Makonde Terra Cotta Fetish Doll

Arms flung wide, mouth open. Whatever he has to say, he means it.

The Makonde of Tanzania made small figures of this kind for use in the household and in ceremony, often to offer protection or help. He is terra cotta and cloth, nine and a half inches tall, from the late 19th or early 20th century. The ears are large and round, the eyes hollow, the nose pointed. Cloth is wrapped around his neck, the tied end sticking out to one side. A raised strap crosses the chest. A round hole marks the belly.

The surface is gray-brown, weathered and textured. Short legs, splayed toes. A very direct fellow.