Item Report
African Tribal Hardwood Female Figure
By: Unknown
Style: African Tribal Art
Origin: Africa (likely East or Southern Africa)
Materials: Carved hardwood
Age: Mid-20th century (circa 1950-1970)
Condition: Very Good (minor surface wear, retains good patina, no major losses visible)
Value: $40 - $120
Maker's Marks / Writing: No visible maker's marks or writing present.
Date: 2025-06-03 04:59:40.104996
Description:
A hand-carved figurative sculpture depicting a standing female figure, characterized by elongated neck rings and facial features typical of traditional African tribal art. The subject likely represents a woman from an ethnic group famed for neck jewelry, possibly Maasai or Ndebele. The sculpture is carved from a dark hardwood, giving it weight and a prominent patina.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
This figure is an authentic, hand-carved example of mid-20th century African tribal art, likely made as a decorative or souvenir piece. The wear and patina suggest some age, and the form is representative of traditional female imagery from certain African cultures. Such items were commonly produced for both local and export markets. The carving quality is decent but not masterful, consistent with artisan production rather than fine gallery work.
Individual Images:
- There are no additional images
- so subtle details like the base
- underside
- or tool marks are not visible. The main image shows that the carving is intact and has even coloration and surface finish indicative of traditional hardwood African sculpture.
Provenance:
No provenance documentation included.
Condition:
Very Good (minor surface wear, retains good patina, no major losses visible)
Identification Score: 90%
The subject matter, style, and material are all typical of mid-20th century African wooden figures, especially those produced for the tourist or export market. The neck rings are a significant identifying feature.
Authenticity Score: 75%
While the piece shows handwork and signs of age, it is likely a genuine but commercial/folk carving from the 1950s-1970s, not a ceremonial or antique piece. There are no visible indications it is a modern reproduction, but it is also not an ethnographically significant artifact.
Image Memory Note
Keywords
African art, tribal sculpture, wooden figure, folk art, mid-century, souvenir carving, neck rings
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