Hand-Carved African Stylized Figural Sculpture
African Art & Collectibles

Hand-Carved African Stylized Figural Sculpture

This item is a hand-carved wooden sculpture depicting a stylized human figure, likely of East African origin, specifically in the Makonde or Maasai carving traditions frequently produced for the export and tourist market. The sculpture is rendered in a warm, medium-toned hardwood with a visible natural grain and a polished, semi-gloss finish. It features an elongated, abstract human form in a dynamic, expressive pose with one arm raised high and the other reaching toward a vessel or drum near its feet. The anatomical proportions are purposefully exaggerated, showcasing the artisan's skill in figurative abstraction. The piece is mounted on an integral rectangular wooden base, carved from the same single block of timber. Its height appears to be approximately 10 to 12 inches based on the surrounding desktop objects. The craftsmanship indicates a mid-to-late 20th-century production, characterized by smooth, flowing lines and rhythmic contours. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures in the provided view, which is common for such artisanal folk art. The condition appears good with a healthy patina and minor surface wear consistent with age, though no major cracks, chips, or scientific repairs are immediately evident. The wood displays a rich variation in color, likely enhanced by a light wax or oil treatment.

Estimated Value

$40 - $75

Basic Information

Category

African Art & Collectibles

Appraised On

January 24, 2026

Estimated Value

$40 - $75

Item Description

This item is a hand-carved wooden sculpture depicting a stylized human figure, likely of East African origin, specifically in the Makonde or Maasai carving traditions frequently produced for the export and tourist market. The sculpture is rendered in a warm, medium-toned hardwood with a visible natural grain and a polished, semi-gloss finish. It features an elongated, abstract human form in a dynamic, expressive pose with one arm raised high and the other reaching toward a vessel or drum near its feet. The anatomical proportions are purposefully exaggerated, showcasing the artisan's skill in figurative abstraction. The piece is mounted on an integral rectangular wooden base, carved from the same single block of timber. Its height appears to be approximately 10 to 12 inches based on the surrounding desktop objects. The craftsmanship indicates a mid-to-late 20th-century production, characterized by smooth, flowing lines and rhythmic contours. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures in the provided view, which is common for such artisanal folk art. The condition appears good with a healthy patina and minor surface wear consistent with age, though no major cracks, chips, or scientific repairs are immediately evident. The wood displays a rich variation in color, likely enhanced by a light wax or oil treatment.

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