Vintage Makonde African Male Head Sculpture in Ebony, 1960s

Details

Description

This impressive, hand-carved sculpture of an African head is a prime example of masterful wood carving from the mid-20th century. … Read more This impressive, hand-carved sculpture of an African head is a prime example of masterful wood carving from the mid-20th century. Crafted from solid, heavy ebony, the piece captivates with its striking two-tone effect, which effectively contrasts the deep black heartwood of the face with the reddish accents of the hairstyle and earrings.

Details & Design

• Material: Solid ebony, approx. 0.962 kg.

• Dimensions: Height 22 cm, Width 8 cm, Depth 14 cm.

• Aesthetics: The sculpture depicts a stylized male physiognomy with finely detailed eyelids and a detailed, linearly structured hairstyle. The traditional-looking earrings, carved from the reddish part of the wood, are particularly noteworthy.

• Craftsmanship: The underside shows authentic marks from traditional carving tools, while the visible surfaces are finely smoothed and polished.

Condition

The bust is in very good vintage condition with a beautiful patina. Minor, age-related signs of wear—such as minimal surface scratches on the forehead—underscore the authentic character of this handcrafted, unique piece.

Decorative Use
with its slender silhouette and strong vertical presence, this sculpture is ideal as an accent piece on a sideboard, shelf, or as part of a curated collection of African art. See less