African Blackwood Rhinoceros Figure (Tanzania)

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This is a finely carved African rhinoceros figure from Tanzania, executed in solid African Blackwood (Mpingo), one of the densest … Read more This is a finely carved African rhinoceros figure from Tanzania, executed in solid African Blackwood (Mpingo), one of the densest and most prized carving woods in East Africa. Measuring 7 inches in height and 13 inches in length, the sculpture is carved from a single heavy block of blackwood, displaying the characteristic deep black coloration with warm brown undertones that emerge under light.

The sculptor captures the rhinoceros's powerful mass and distinctive anatomy, emphasizing its signature dual horns, broad shoulders, and muscular body. The wood is smoothly polished, and the form's massing demonstrates traditional Tanzanian carving technique: minimalist yet anatomically expressive, with a focus on the animal's powerful forward stance. The piece has notable heft due to the extreme density of Dalbergia melanoxylon.

The sculpture is priced at the appraised value, reflecting the use of genuine African Blackwood (Mpingo), significantly more valuable than common ebony substitutes, strong condition, larger-than-typical size for blackwood animal carvings, Tanzanian origin, with personal acquisition history See less