Makonde Zoomorphic Fetish Doll, Based

A red face, arms held out, and legs folded as if settling in for a long talk.

This zoomorphic fetish doll is Makonde, from Tanzania or Mozambique, East Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is terra cotta, on a base. The Makonde are widely known as carvers of wood and masks, and small figures in clay and wood are generally associated with protection, fertility and the care of the household. This one sits squarely, its legs bent forward and its arms raised to either side. The face is painted red, with a ridged nose and small slanted eyes, while the body is dark and weathered with pale patches. It is 5 inches wide and 5.25 high.

Small enough for a shelf, serious enough for its job.