Makonde Fetish Doll Depicting Rhino

Four short legs, a blunt snout, and a rough, slightly dented hide.

Makonde makers of Tanzania, East Africa, formed this rhinoceros in terra cotta in the late 19th or early 20th century. Small clay animal figures are commonly associated with ritual, protective or medicinal use in the region, and are often called fetish dolls in trade records. The body is stocky and low, with a squared head and two small ears. The clay is sooty gray and black, with pale scuffs and crusty buildup along the back and sides.

About eleven inches long. A little rhino with plenty of history on its skin.