BEAUTIFUL ANTIQUE MAKONDE FEMALE CARVING STATUE

A lovely, old example of East African Makonde carving in the Binadamu tradition (figurative).

The style of the carving, the way the face and body are shaped, suggests it may be from Mozambique. 

It depicts a woman carrying a large load on her back, with a carrying strap across her forehead - these are called tumplines and have been used for carrying heavy loads for thousands of years in Africa (and elsewhere). It is quite a rare subject, and they tumplines are not used much these days.

It is beautifully carved, with a strong aesthetic and showing an unusual subject.

The skill of the carver in making the figure balance is impressive - it sort of looks like it shouldn't stay upright, but it sits very well and I think shows the experience of the artist.

A good size, it is approx. 27-28cm tall. 

As a non-expert, it is hard to age the piece exactly - it is certainly pre-1950s, and I would estimate 1920-30s.

The figure is vintage/antique, but it is in very good condition. It has some general age-related wear and patina, light marks to the wood, etc. but nothing significant.

Please check out the photos as they best show condition and style.

And please take a look at my other items.

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