Collection of three hand-carved wooden busts
Art & Collectibles / Sculptures / Ethnic & Tribal Art

Collection of three hand-carved wooden busts

This collection consists of three mid-20th-century hand-carved wooden busts, likely originating from East Africa or Southeast Asia (possibly Bali). The set includes a stylized male figure with a jagged hairline, a more realistic male figure with a smooth pate, and a female figure adorned with a prominent open-work fan-shaped headdress. Each piece is carved from a solid block of dense, dark-grained hardwood, possibly teak or mahogany, showcasing a rich brown hue with natural graining throughout. The figures measure approximately 6 to 8 inches in height. The craftsmanship varies from rough, expressive gouge marks on the stylized figure to delicate, intricate piercing on the female's headdress. Notable details include the elongated necks and traditional facial features characteristic of folk or tourist art from the 1950s-1970s. Condition-wise, the wood appears well-preserved with a soft natural patina; however, there are minor surface scuffs, small dings on the bases, and dust accumulation in the crevices of the carvings. No visible maker's marks or signatures are present, which is common for such artisanal works. The figures are stable and display high-quality hand-tooling, particularly visible in the anatomical proportions of the busts.

Estimated Value

$150 - $250

Basic Information

Category

Art & Collectibles / Sculptures / Ethnic & Tribal Art

Appraised On

March 23, 2026

Estimated Value

$150 - $250

Item Description

This collection consists of three mid-20th-century hand-carved wooden busts, likely originating from East Africa or Southeast Asia (possibly Bali). The set includes a stylized male figure with a jagged hairline, a more realistic male figure with a smooth pate, and a female figure adorned with a prominent open-work fan-shaped headdress. Each piece is carved from a solid block of dense, dark-grained hardwood, possibly teak or mahogany, showcasing a rich brown hue with natural graining throughout. The figures measure approximately 6 to 8 inches in height. The craftsmanship varies from rough, expressive gouge marks on the stylized figure to delicate, intricate piercing on the female's headdress. Notable details include the elongated necks and traditional facial features characteristic of folk or tourist art from the 1950s-1970s. Condition-wise, the wood appears well-preserved with a soft natural patina; however, there are minor surface scuffs, small dings on the bases, and dust accumulation in the crevices of the carvings. No visible maker's marks or signatures are present, which is common for such artisanal works. The figures are stable and display high-quality hand-tooling, particularly visible in the anatomical proportions of the busts.

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