Masai

I sculpted this figure after traveling in Tanzania, Africa, and visiting the impressive Masai tribe. The Masai consider themselves the caretakers of the world's cattle. They very seldom slaughter the animals, but, instead, drain off blood from the neck vein of the live animal and mix it with the cow's milk. This nourishing drink leaves the animal unharmed.

A young Masai male wears an earring only on his left upper ear until he completes the rite of passage to manhood. Until the 1970's, to prove he was worthy of becoming a man, a boy had to go into the bush alone and kill a lion. After manhood ceremonies, additional jewelry could be worn according to individual tastes. The long stick the figure holds in the only weapon a herdsman carries besides the wooden club attached to his waist.