Makonde Comb Figural Tanzania African Art 142722 retail

PRODUCT DETAILS

+ Type of Object - Comb
+ Country of Origin - Tanzania
+ People - Makonde
+ Materials - Wood
+ Height (in) - 8.5
+ Width (in) - 3
+ Depth (in) - .75
+ Overall Condition - Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.   Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use.  We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings.  Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

Additional Information: Makonde are widely well known for their wood carvings. Traditionally, these carvings have been household objects, figures, and masks. Both animal and human characterstics are commonly represented in Makonde carvings, representing the traditions and myths of Makonde culture. The majority of Makonde retail carvers use African Blackwood, known locally as mpingo. This "lustrous, high-quality hardwood allows artisans to carve intricate details. Many Makonde artisans achieve a more natural look by incorporating the use of beeswas and even human hair to accentuate patterns." The use of representations of traditions and myths help bring the carvings to life.

This carving specifically features Shetani, the Swahili word for "devil," which are expressions of Makonde mythology and spirits. This style of carving uses "the appearance of otherwordly physical traits, like large, distorted facial or body features, and sometimes animals" to illustrate the spiritual realm.



DL0922



SKU: 142722