Tanzania
Zaramo

Wood, metal, hide
Early-Mid 20th Century
Height: 14 inches
Idiophone – Lamellophones – Plucked

A striking anthropomorphic lamellophone called a malimba, attributed to the Zaramo group of Tanzania. The piece bears several Zaramo characteristics – elongated torso, which serves as the resonator, short limbs that are bent upward holding fascial masks, a round head, and short squatting legs. The Zaramo are known for their ceremony, customs, traditions, history, and having a wide variety of festivals and cultures. Their culture is organized into matrilineal clans.