Zaramo Tree of Recovery Pole

c. 1950
$680 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 1.75" D: 2.25" H: 43.0"
Materials
Wood
Collection #
CAA0489
Estimated Shipping
$75

Carved by an artisan of the Zaramo or Kwere people of Tanzania, this tall staff was likely used in ritual healing ceremonies. Such staffs are known as mkomolo, or 'tree of recovery,' and are staked into the ground to act as a backrest for the afflicted individual. The pole is surmounted by a stylized figure known as mwana hiti, a limbless abstract figure meant to embody both male and female attributes. The dual nature of the figure expresses a spiritual unity that plays an important role in Zaramo initiation and healing ceremonies.

Questions? Ask us

What They're Saying

Elizabeth Krueger | Elizabeth Krueger Design

“PAGODA RED was extremely supportive in helping to pull accessory options together for the Lake Forest Showhouse. After providing them with details and our vision on how we were looking to finish our space, Laurene helped curate options that made it easy for us to edit and finalize. It's also no surprise that the unique pieces we used in our showhouse space were some of the first to sell.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces