African Shona Figural Sculpture of Carved Giraffe Signed Illegibly in a Green Opal Stone

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The Stone itself is most likely a green opal vs serpentine, based on the light green colors. It reminds me … Read more The Stone itself is most likely a green opal vs serpentine, based on the light green colors. It reminds me of the muted colors of a safari. In addition , the design is imbedded within the stone with sensuous curves and indentations to give it a three dimensional feel. It sits within a simple wooden block that has a wide slit made specifically to fit the stone sculpture. . It takes a little maneuvering to get it to balance, and it is quite heavy,(not weighed but approx. 40 pounds) but once it is properly fitted it balances itself nicely. The Sculpture stood in a prominent corner of a large home that showcased many works of African art. This piece may be attributed to the artist Chrsitopher Thandi, based on it's style & choice of subjects. The artist is a second generation nephew to sculptor NIcholas Thandi who is a world renowned sculptor. The Shona people are known for their sculptures, and have been making them since the mid 50's and early 60's. See less