Makonde carvings are probably the best known artisan art work produced in Tanzania. Carvings are representing tribal myths and stories . . . most inspirational. Mpingo – or African Blackwood – wood allows for incredible detail during the carving process. The “Tree of Life” depicts members of an extended family, including past and present generations…. gently supporting each other. It says a lot about human ancestral heritage and how the current family was literally built on the back of the members who came before.
This “tree of life” stands 18” tall. There are 17 different human figures intertwined to form a phenomenal wood sculpture and original piece of African art.
This piece was carved by one person and is most definitely ONE-OF-A-KIND. Notice the base . . . its outer-part left uncarved. The bottom shows clearly the deep, black, hard core of this magnificent wood.
This carving came from the famous Mwenge Market in Dar-es-Salaam and it is relatively recent. Makonde carvings are found throughout the world in museums such as the Ethnographic Museum in Oslo Norway and the Bayly Museum in Virginia. Truly a sculpture of cultural fine art.
For the Serious Collector.
This item has been sold. Thanks M.S. !!