Mid-Century Carved African Wall Art

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Attributed to the mid 20th century, this 65-inch architectural entrance door is an authentic three-plank masterwork from the Nupe people … Read more Attributed to the mid 20th century, this 65-inch architectural entrance door is an authentic three-plank masterwork from the Nupe people of Central Nigeria along the Niger River basin. Nupe woodcarvers transformed prestige compound portals into visual narratives of ecology and family status. The face is carved in dynamic relief centering on an undulating vertical river serpent flanked by long-necked ostriches, wading birds, dome-shelled tortoises, a savanna quadruped, and a sacred guardian monitor lizard.

Interspersed across the timber are symbols of household prestige and spiritual protection, including blacksmith arrows, ceremonial sword forms, and geometric leather amulet matrices. Hand-hewn from solid indigenous African hardwood, the three vertical planks are reinforced on the reverse by three horizontal timber bracing cleats secured with wooden pins. Measuring 65 inches high by 24 inches wide and 1 inch deep, its slender architectural proportions and rich dark espresso patina make it a striking statement piece for entryways, mantel backdrops, vertical niches, and curated global art collections.

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