African Wood Carved and Patterned Coconut Grater “Mbuzi” Zaramo People Tanzania

Here on offer is a great example of an African wood carved and patterned coconut grater/scraper, known as a “Mbuzi” by the Zaramo people of Tanzania, East Africa.

The Zaramo people are a Bantu ethnic group living in the coastal plains and low hills of Tanzania, primarily around the largest city and former capital, Dar es Salaam. They number in the hundreds of thousands, predominantly speak Swahili in daily life, and practice Islam blended with traditional customs.

The Mbuzi has been made from a dark African wood and consists of two planks that are fitted together in such a way they make a folding seat/stool, the top of which has been painted with some geometric designs.

At the pointed end, an oval steel blade with a serrated edge, has been securely fitted and is held in place with a steel collar. This is the tool that is used to split open and scrap out the coconut meat from inside the husk.

The Zaramo people take pride in the graters, which are simple and plain or decorated with a variety of geometric patterns, that may be painted, incised or burned into the surface.

This example is in excellent condition and makes an impressive piece of usable African art. A great display item.

When closed, it measures 25” (63.5cm) long end to end including the blade. It is 6.5” 16.5cm) wide and the blade measures 3” (7.7cm) long.

It weighs a heavy 2Kg.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Code: 52445