Hand-Carved Makande/Ebony Wood Figural Sculpture (Likely Tanzanian)
Unbranded (Artisan Handmade) · Art & Decor > Sculptures & Figurines
Era / Decade
Mid-to-Late 20th Century (1960s-1980s)
Material
Likely African Blackwood (Grenadilla) or Dark-Stained Ebony; characteristics include dense grain and heavy weight.
Condition
Very Good; the piece appears structurally sound with no major missing chips or cracks. Minor dust accumulation in crevices and some light surface abrasions consistent with age.
Demand Level
Moderate; appeals to collectors of African art, mid-century modern enthusiasts, and 'maximalist' interior decorators.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$35.00 - $85.00
Estimated Retail Value
$100.00 - $175.00 (as specialized boutique fair-trade art)
Comparable Sales
Similar Makonde carvings of this size typically sell for $40-$60 on eBay, while larger or more complex 'Tree of Life' style carvings can exceed $200.
Description
An intricate, mid-century hand-carved wooden sculpture featuring an owl or stylized bird perched atop lower figures including a smaller animal and a human face. The piece exhibits traditional Makonde-style elements with textured chip-carving on the feathers and a smooth, polished finish on the facial features. Standing approximately 10-12 inches tall, it features inset eyes and deep, dark wood tones.
Key Features
Hand-carved artisanal quality, dense premium hardwood, unique 'Shetani' or tribal narrative style, and excellent shelf appeal for Boho or Global Mid-Century Modern decor.
Authenticity Indicators
Tool marks visible in the feather texture confirm hand-carving over machine molding; the weight of the wood and the specific style of the inset eyes are consistent with East African export art. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Minor finish wear on sharp edges; dust in the deep textured carvings; potential hairline drying cracks (common in aged tropical hardwoods) though none visible in photo.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (for vintage/artisan reach), eBay (for collectors), or Chairish (if authenticated as high-end Makonde art). Local Facebook Marketplace is good for a quick sale to MCM decor fans.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Makonde', 'Ebony', 'Hand Carved', 'Tribal Art', and 'MCM Decor'. Take photos against a plain white background to highlight the dark silhouette. Apply a small amount of Howard Feed-N-Wax to restore the wood's luster before photographing.