African Carved Hardwood Figural Sculpture — Standing Youth, circa 1960s

There is an arrested quality to this figure — hands raised, head tilted, caught in a moment between worlds. Carved from a single piece of dense African hardwood, it commands attention with the quiet authority of a serious work of art.

OBJECT DETAILS An ideal piece for collectors of African art and tribal sculpture, interior designers sourcing objects of rare sculptural presence, or for film and TV prop buyers seeking period-accurate African decorative objects.

A hand-carved standing figure of a young male in dense dark hardwood, the wood exhibiting characteristic reddish undertones consistent with mpingo (African blackwood) or a related East African hardwood. The figure stands with arms raised and hands positioned at the sides of the head, the face expressing a contemplative or arrested expression. The elaborate headdress or coiffure forms a distinctive flat disc above the head. The carving is executed with confidence and fluency — the surface polished to a deep natural sheen. The natural grain and mineral variations in the wood are part of the material's character, not flaws. Presented on a professional gallery-style lucite display base with rubber feet and mounting hardware, suggesting prior collection or gallery ownership. East African, most likely Tanzanian, in the Makonde tradition, circa mid-20th century. No maker's mark or signature visible.

DIMENSIONS H 22cm total (figure H 20cm; lucite base H 2cm) (H 8.7" total)

CONDITION REPORT In very good condition. Deep natural patina throughout. Natural wood grain variation and mineral inclusions visible — these are inherent characteristics of the hardwood, not damage. No chips, no cracks, no repairs. Surface polished and intact. Photographs form part of this description. Please review all images carefully as they document the piece's condition in full detail.

CURATOR'S NOTE Selected for the quality and fluency of its carving and the singular expressiveness of its pose. The gesture — hands raised to the head, figure caught mid-movement — carries a psychological charge that rewards sustained looking. Previously presented on a professional gallery display base, suggesting a history of serious collection.

FULL FAQ:

What is the condition of this piece? This piece is in very good condition. Deep natural patina throughout. Natural wood grain variation and mineral inclusions are inherent characteristics of the hardwood, not damage. No chips, no cracks, no repairs. Surface polished and intact. Photographs form part of this description — please review all images carefully.

What are the exact dimensions? H 22cm total (figure H 20cm; lucite base H 2cm) (H 8.7" total)

Where does this piece come from? East African, most likely Tanzanian, in the Makonde carving tradition, circa mid-20th century. No maker's mark or signature visible. The professional gallery-style lucite base suggests prior collection or gallery ownership.

Do you ship internationally? Yes — Fontaine London ships worldwide. Prices shown include duties and taxes for your country (DDP — Delivered Duty Paid), so there are no surprise charges on delivery. Shipping cost is calculated at checkout.

Is this piece suitable for film or TV prop use? Yes — this piece is available for prop hire enquiries. Please contact us directly to discuss.

What is your returns policy? We offer a 14-day return policy for items that do not match their description. As all pieces are one-of-a-kind vintage items, we ask buyers to review all photographs and the condition report carefully before purchasing. Photographs form part of the item description.