From our personal collection, on offer is an exceptional vintage Family Tree carving from the Makonde people of Tanzania -- unquestionably, one of the finest examples of its type we've ever come across. Portraying several generations of a family, so-called family trees share conceptual as well as traditional artistic elements in their creation. Standing in a vertical column, the carving consists of multiple figures, heads, animals, faces, that are ingeniously & inextricably intertwined -- body limbs interlace; an arm of one figure becomes the leg of another figure; one body morphs into another; & so on.

Brilliantly conceived as a composition, this impressive sculpture has been masterfully executed. Weighing a stunning 14- POUNDS, it was carved in deep relief from a massive, solid block of extremely heavy, ebony wood. Obviously the work of a mature, confident , & gifted artist, the sculptor has captured the strong spirit & ethnicity of his people. Thousands of tiny, painstaking cuts lend texture & contrast to the smoother surfaces of this complex, intricate work. Wonderful contours throughout. In very good overall condition, the piece shows a rich patina that comes with age. Viewed from any angle, this magnificent statue makes a powerful display, & would be a significant addition to any fine collection.

Feel free to contact me for more info or images of the sculpture. having trouble loading images