Lot 49: Hand Carved Variegated Hardwood Female Bust in the Makonde Style
A hand-carved wooden bust of a female figure, displaying characteristics associated with East African carving traditions, specifically the Makonde style. The piece is fashioned from a dense hardwood with a distinctive variegated grain, featuring alternating bands of dark espresso brown and lighter tan streaks. The subject is depicted with an elongated profile, heavy eyelids, a prominent nose, and full lips. The hair is intricately rendered into multiple textured braids or cornrows that curve into circular loops at the crown and the nape of the neck. The face and neck are finished to a smooth, polished sheen, while the hair and the circular, tapered base exhibit a matte, chiselled texture. The underside of the base is flat and unpolished. There are no maker’s marks, signatures, or inscriptions visible on the piece.
Condition report:
The sculpture is in good overall condition. Minor surface scuffs and small abrasions consistent with handling are visible around the edges of the base and on the protruding tips of the hair loops (photo 1). The natural grain of the wood shows no significant structural cracks or evidence of repair.
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