The Kwere are a matrilineal ethnic group based in the Pwani Region of coastal Tanzania. They neighbour the Zaramo, Zigua, Luguru, and Swahili peoples. They carved wood wooden figures appear to have been effigies of deceased chiefs. Other examples of wood sculpture, including figures and masks, are known, some showing possible influences from the Luba of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Kwere had elaborated ceremonial occasions which were presided over by lineage elders. Figurative staffs served to legitimate the roles and abilities of ritual specialists and also used as tools in the ritual process. Such staffs were used in the context of male or female ritual rites, figurative. Staffs such as this were planted in the ceremonial ground which was meant to consecrate it. This staff has a wooden spoon-shaped top, a well-sculpted female figurine in the midsection of the long staff, it has a dark patina and shows signs of usage.
- Material: Wood
- Age: approximately 50-60yrs
- Origin: Tanzania
- Condition: Slight damage at the spoon top
- SKU: LMCL-047
- Weight: 0.8 kg
- Dimensions: 7 x 123 x 6 cm