African Nyamwezi Style Beaded Figures

Updated August 6, 2026

A collection of African ethnographic items consisting of 4 figurative dolls and a carved flywhisk. The dolls are consistent in style with Nyamwezi fertility figures from Tanzania. Each doll features a carved wooden head with simplified features and small circular bead inlays for eyes. The bodies are constructed from wood and meticulously wrapped in continuous coils of dark brown fiber cordage. The heads are adorned with multiple thin, braided fiber strands, some terminating in small black beads. Various glass trade beads decorate the figures, forming wide collars and stylized patterns on the torso. The dolls stand on short, carved wooden legs. The flywhisk features a carved wooden handle terminating in a stylized human head pommel. The grip is wrapped in a maroon-colored leather band secured by silver-toned metal studs and includes a small leather hanging loop. The whisk portion is composed of long, coarse black animal hair with natural variegated blonde streaks. Tallest doll height: 12 inchesSmallest doll height: 9.5 inchesFlywhisk total length: 14.5 inches.The collection shows signs of age and handling consistent with use and storage. The dolls exhibit minor fray

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