Early 20th Century Lion Incised Stone Plaque by Mazola Wa Mwashighadi MATTER COLLECTION

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Mazola Wa Mwashighadi (Kenya/Jamaica)
This striking rectangular stone plaque by Mazola Wa Mwashighadi features a finely incised sketch of a … Read more Mazola Wa Mwashighadi (Kenya/Jamaica)
This striking rectangular stone plaque by Mazola Wa Mwashighadi features a finely incised sketch of a lion, rendered in confident, expressive line work. The lion’s flowing mane is articulated through energetic, etched strokes that contrast beautifully against the dark, polished surface of the stone. It is signed by the artist. 
Working with natural materials and bold imagery drawn from African identity and wildlife, Mwashighadi often blended drawing and sculpture in innovative ways. Here, the simplicity of the rectangular form allows the power and dignity of the lion to take center stage.
A compelling and tactile piece, this work reflects the artist’s strong graphic sensibility and his connection to African symbolism, where the lion represents strength, leadership, and resilience.








Artist Profile — Mazola Wa Mwashighadi (1964–2025)
Mazola Wa Mwashighadi was a Kenyan-born multidisciplinary artist whose practice encompassed sculpture, painting, collage, installation, jewelry, and mixed media. Born in Taita-Taveta District, Kenya, he trained at the Creative Art Centre in Nairobi before expanding into sculptural assemblage and work with found materials.
Awarded the Commonwealth Art and Craft Fellowship (1996–97), he studied at the Edna Manley College in Kingston, Jamaica, later making Jamaica his home. His work explored cultural memory, identity, ritual, and ecology, often transforming discarded materials into powerful, expressive forms.
Exhibiting internationally across Africa, the Caribbean, Europe, and the United States, Mwashighadi also completed major public commissions, including Totem of Heritage in Jamaica. He is remembered for bridging Kenyan heritage and Caribbean artistic dialogue through his innovative and socially engaged practice.
Provenance: Matter Collection
From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.













Height (In) 3.0Width (In) 2.0Depth (In) 0.5






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