African Ebony Statue Appraisal

Vintage Hand-Carved African Ebony Female Maternity Statue

This is a hand-carved wooden statue depicting a female figure, likely of East African origin (possibly Makonde or Kamba tribal influence), carved from a dense, dark hardwood such as Macassar Ebony or Dalbergia melanoxylon. The figure stands approximately 10-12 inches high, positioned in a traditional kneeling or seated pose. The physical characteristics include a highly stylized head featuring a textured coiffure or braided hairstyle, elongated facial features, and large, hoop-style earrings. Around the neck are several carved concentric rings representing traditional beaded necklaces. The torso displays prominent anatomical features consistent with maternity or fertility figures, and the arms are carved with banded bracelets near the wrists and biceps. The wood exhibits a deep chocolate brown to charcoal black color with a smooth, polished finish that highlights a rich, natural luster. Small vertical striations from the carving tools are visible upon close inspection, particularly in the recessed areas. The condition appears fair to good; there is visible white residue in the crevices, likely old polish or dust, and some superficial scuffs along the base and shoulders. No major structural cracks or repairs are visible in the photograph, though a natural age patina is present. This piece likely dates from the mid-to-late 20th century, produced during the height of the African ethnographic art export market. The craftsmanship shows high attention to detail in the anatomical proportions and decorative scarification-like banding on the limbs.