An unusual ritual object from the Pare culture of north-eastern Tanzania, combining the dual functions of a figurative fetish and a container. The piece depicts two adjoining female figures, each with a hollowed-out body designed to hold traditional medicines used in ritual practices and healing ceremonies.
Distinctive fetish cavities are present in the head of each figure. The surface is encrusted and retains a slightly oily patina.
Ex Private Collection, Bryan Reeves, London
Ex Private Family Collection, Tanzania
Estimated Period: 1950's
Height: 21.5 cm
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