Zaramo Tree of Recovery Pole

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.