A hand-carved standing male figure in dense dark hardwood, mounted on a separate striped hardwood base. Its elongated proportions and downcast expression create a quiet, contemplative presence. Individually carved fingers hold a round vessel at waist level, giving the sculpture a clear and engaging focal point.
Face and Expression
The face combines high cheekbones, full lips and a small, refined nose. Downward-cast eyes contribute to the figure’s inward-looking expression. Tight rows of carved coils define the hair and add texture above the smoother facial contours.
The slender standing pose reinforces the restrained character of the carving. A bare torso and wrapped loincloth keep attention on the figure’s proportions, face and carefully worked hands.
Hands and Carved Detail
Both hands cup a rounded vessel or bowl at the waist. Each finger is individually defined, making this section particularly rewarding to examine closely. The vessel introduces a rounded shape within the otherwise elongated composition.
Individual toes are also rendered at the feet. These smaller details connect the upper and lower parts of the sculpture through a consistent attention to carving. They contribute to its character without requiring additional ornament.
Materials and Finish
The figure is described as dense dark tropical hardwood, possibly ebony or African rosewood. The base is a contrasting striped hardwood, possibly zebrawood or a similar species. Neither wood identification is confirmed.
Honey and dark-brown striping on the cylindrical base contrasts with the darker figure. A high-gloss polished finish gives the surfaces depth and highlights the visible grain. The contrast between the two woods is an important part of the sculpture’s visual appeal.
Attribution and Display
The piece is attributed to East or Central African carving, with Kenya, Tanzania or DRC suggested as possible origins. Makonde or Kamba influence has also been suggested, but no specific tradition is confirmed.
Its estimated date is the 1950s–1970s. At 32 cm tall, it offers a distinct vertical accent for a shelf, console or display cabinet. A simple setting allows the face, hands and contrasting base to remain the focus.
Condition
Good vintage condition overall. A small vertical crack, approximately 1–1.5 cm, is present at the right ankle/base joint. The figure is reported to stand firmly, with no effect on its stability.
No losses, repairs or missing elements are reported. The surface polish remains intact. Please review the photographs carefully, particularly the disclosed ankle/base crack.
Key Details
Type: Hand-carved standing male figure
Material: Dark hardwood figure and striped hardwood base; species unconfirmed
Technique: Hand-carved, high-gloss polished finish
Subject: Standing man holding a round vessel, wrapped loincloth and coiled hair
Dimensions: 32 × 6 × 6 cm
Origin attribution: East or Central Africa; exact country unconfirmed
Tradition attribution: Possible Makonde or Kamba influence; unconfirmed
Age: Estimated 1950s–1970s
Condition: Good; small right ankle/base crack, approximately 1–1.5 cm; reported stable
SKU: 2C115
Why It's Special
The appeal centres on the expressive face, individually carved fingers and contrast between the dark figure and striped base. These details give the sculpture a distinctive presence. Its quiet pose rewards close viewing as much as its elongated silhouette does from a distance.
One Royal Art
At One Royal Art, we curate distinctive vintage pieces with care. This carved hardwood figure brings expressive detail and sculptural character to a thoughtfully collected home. Thank you for visiting our store.
