Likely worn as a charm or pendant, the body of the short handle is decorated with deeply incised geometric designs. The finely carved head displays characteristic Makonde features, with raised scarifications and a pronounced lip adornment. The lower section of the shaft flares slightly outwards, suggesting that an attachment was once secured to the piece, allowing it to be worn or suspended.
This example differs in style from the small group of comparable pieces, often described as 'stoppers', that were field collected in the Makonde region during the early 20th Century. A label affixed to the underside of the original display mount reads: "witch doctor's charm, East Africa, circa 1917."
Ex: Private Collection, Gloucestershire, UK
Height: 15 cm
Estimated Period: Circa 1910 (or before)
GFH.AGEO
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