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| Item No. |
EA0002 |
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| Work: |
Bust of a Tribesman |
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| Place of Origin: |
southeast Tanzania / northeast
Mozambique |
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Africa |
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| People: |
Makonde (Wamakonde) People |
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| Date of work: |
20th century
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| Medium: |
Carved African Blackwood "Mpingo" (Dalbergia
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melanoxylon) |
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| Size: |
Height: 6-3/4" (17.0 cm) |
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Width: 3-1/16" (7.8
cm)
Depth: 3-3/16" (8.0 cm) |
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| Description: |
This exquisite carving depicts a Makonde tribesman, |
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probably an older individual. Careful attention
has been paid to his neatly trimmed and styled hair, quite differently
designed on each side of the head. Although the most traditional
carvings are usually embellished with real hair, in this apparently
more modern version, the artist chose to carve the hairstyle
instead. The typical, yet very elaborate facial scarification, was
carved here in raised relief. The tribesman’s teeth are depicted
filed, and below his chest is a carving of what probably is a tattoo.
The hardwood is carefully polished. |
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| JMBG Notes: |
The Makonde people are prolific wood carvers, and are |
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well known for their lipiko
initiation masks, the Tree of Life carvings, and various
figures. Although much of their traditional food source comes through
slash and burn farming, for the Makonde living in vicinity of cities
and in the coastal regions, carving for tourist trade has become a
major industry. |
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| Condition: |
Excellent condition. Only few minor
scuffs; small chips |
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on left eyelid and chin appear to be made
during carving. |
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| Provenance: |
Private collection. |
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| Price: |
$650.00 US |
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| Detail Photos: |
Larger View of Above |
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Front View |
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Detail |
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Right Side |
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Left View |
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Back View |
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Top View |
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