Hand-Carved African Elephant Totem Tower Figurine
Unbranded (Artisan/Tourist Trade) · Art & Decor > Sculptures & Figurines
Era / Decade
Late 20th Century (1980s-1990s)
Material
Hand-carved solid wood (likely Teak, Mahogany, or a similar indigenous African hardwood) with a polished finish.
Condition
Very Good. The carvings appear intact with no visible missing trunks or ears. There is minor surface shelf wear and a slightly dull finish common with age.
Demand Level
Moderate. Elephant decor has a consistent niche following, especially for those collecting 'good luck' symbols (trunks up).
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $18.00 | Mid: $28.00 | High: $45.00
Estimated Retail Value
$45.00 - $65.00
Comparable Sales
Similar vintage carved elephant towers typically sell on eBay for $25-$35 plus shipping. Single large elephants sell for less, but the 'totem' stack carries a slight premium for its architectural interest.
Description
A striking hand-carved wood sculpture featuring a stack of six elephants in a graduated totem style. Each elephant is uniquely detailed, showing the marks of hand-tooling. The piece reaches approximately 12-14 inches in height on a square pedestal base. Rich medium-brown wood tone with a soft gloss finish.
Key Features
Hand-carved artisan quality; popular 'Safari' or 'Boho' decor theme; solid hardwood construction; good height (verticality) for shelf styling.
Authenticity Indicators
Visible chisel marks and slight asymmetrical differences between animals confirm hand-carving rather than machine mold production. Confidence: High (Authentic hand-carver folk art).
Flaws to Note
Minor scuff marks near the base; white residue in deeper crevices (likely old wax or polish buildup); no felt on the bottom of the base which may scratch furniture.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (Vintage section), eBay, or a local curated booth (Antique Mall). It would also do well as a 'Boho' accent on Facebook Marketplace.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Hand Carved', 'Boho Decor', 'African Art', and 'Elephant Totem'. Ensure photos are taken against a neutral background to highlight the wood grain. Clean the dust out of the crevices with a soft toothbrush before photographing.