Details
Description
An exceptionally rare and commanding pair of monumental West African figural sculptures, each standing nearly 3 1/2 feet tall and …
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An exceptionally rare and commanding pair of monumental West African figural sculptures, each standing nearly 3 1/2 feet tall and crowned with oversized ceremonial masks adorned with cowrie shells and hand-stitched woven textile panels.
These seated figures are carved from solid hardwood with elongated torsos, articulated limbs, carved scarification patterns, and expressive ceremonial postures. The dramatic oval masks feature:
• Raised geometric carving
• Inlaid cowrie shells symbolizing wealth and spiritual protection
• Hand-stitched burlap-style textile panels
• Deeply carved striated hair motifs
• Natural red pigment highlighting the eyes and lips
The backs reveal heavy age cracking, hand-tool marks, and oxidation that confirm they were carved with cultural purpose rather than strictly decorative export. The patina is thick, matte, and organically layered — the kind only achieved through decades of handling and exposure.
They were created as shrine-like or prestige figures, meant to command space and presence. Finding a matched monumental pair of this scale and quality is extremely uncommon.
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Why They Matter
• Museum-scale African sculpture rarely survives in pairs
• Dramatic architectural presence — perfect for lofts, galleries, entry halls, or hospitality interiors
• Cowrie shell and textile integration indicate spiritual or ceremonial significance
• Each figure is powerful individually — together they are extraordinary
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Style / Period
Tribal · Global · Primitive Modern
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Place of Origin
West Africa
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Materials
Hand-carved hardwood, cowrie shells, hand-stitched textile, natural pigments
Dimensions - Each figure
Height Width Depth
39 in 14.5 in. 6 in
Condition
Good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and traditional hand-carving including surface patina, age cracks, abrasions, and small repairs. All wear is consistent with authenticity and adds to the sculptural character.
Shipping & Handling
Due to size and fragility, professional packing or white-glove freight is strongly recommended. Local pickup available. Please contact prior to purchase for a custom shipping quote.
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- Dimensions
- 14.5ʺW × 6ʺD × 39ʺH
- Styles
- African
- Period
- Mid 20th Century
- Country of Origin
- Ghana
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Shell
- Textile
- Wood
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Brown
- Condition Notes
- Good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and traditional hand-carving including surface patina, age cracks, abrasions, and small repairs. All … moreGood vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and traditional hand-carving including surface patina, age cracks, abrasions, and small repairs. All wear is consistent with authenticity and adds to the sculptural character. less
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