Italian-Made Nubian Blackamoor Carved Wood Polychromed Figures on Pedestals

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This rare pair of Italian carved wood Nubian statues, each standing proudly on its own pedestal base, is the kind … Read more This rare pair of Italian carved wood Nubian statues, each standing proudly on its own pedestal base, is the kind of thing you don’t just place in a room—you introduce it. These figures don’t whisper “decor.” They clear their throats, straighten their shoulders, and politely remind you that they’ve been commanding attention for a very long time.

Each statue is carved in two parts—the figure itself and the pedestal base—because anything this confident knows better than to be rushed into one piece. The craftsmanship is deliberate and expressive. The Nubian figures are shown standing tall, holding aloft shallow tazzas, their posture balanced and dignified, like attendants who understand the importance of their role and take it seriously. Their expressions are calm, assured, and just a little knowing, as if they’ve seen centuries of changing tastes and decided to wait it out.

The carving is richly detailed. The garments are layered and patterned, with incised decoration that adds texture and movement without tipping into fussiness. The contrast between the darkened skin tones and the warm gilded highlights gives the figures depth and drama, the sort you notice first from across the room and then keep discovering as you get closer. The gilding has softened with age, not faded, developing that mellow glow that only time can manage properly.

The pedestal bases are works in their own right—faceted, solid, and thoughtfully decorated to complement the figures above without competing for attention. They give the statues presence and height, turning them into architectural elements rather than mere objects. Together, figure and base feel complete, intentional, and surprisingly modern in their balance.

Pieces like this have a long history in Italian decorative arts, inspired by classical and Renaissance precedents where Nubian figures symbolized exoticism, wealth, and worldly sophistication. These statues weren’t meant to hide in corners. They were made to flank doorways, anchor grand interiors, and start conversations before anyone even sat down.

What makes this pair especially appealing is how well they’ve survived. They’re in good condition, with honest wear that feels earned rather than accidental. Nothing here looks fussy or over-restored. They’ve aged the way good things should—gracefully, confidently, and without apology.

Placed as a pair—because separating them would feel almost rude—they bring symmetry, character, and a sense of theater to any space. Entryway, library, living room, or gallery setting, these Italian Nubian statues don’t just decorate a room. They host it. And once they’re there, everything else seems to behave a little better.

Measures 70 tall x 21 wide x 17 deep See less