Fertility Doll - Zaramo People - Tanzania

Price: $750.00


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Like many other African peoples, the Zaramo of Tanzania use fertility dolls. They are carried by both married women and unmarried girls until the birth of their first child. Upon attaining puberty, a girl is put into seclusion with a doll, which she cares for with ceremonial feedings and washings. This, it is believed, will bless her with fertility. Most Zaramo dolls are carved from wood and are characterized by cylindrical bodies topped with circular or semicircular heads. This particular one is unusual in that it is made from gourds and is heavily laden with beads, shells, metal rings, and fiber. 11.5"H x 5"W x 5"D