Carved Wood Figure of Queen Nefertari or Anubis-style Deity
Sculpture, decorative wood carving • Unknown artisan, likely Egyptian or Sub-Saharan African workshop specializing in tourist/export art
Style & Movement
Neo-Egyptian / African Folk Art fusion
Medium & Technique
Hand-carved hardwood (likely mahogany or teak) with polished finish and metal wire (coil) neck ornament
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th century (c. 1960s-1980s)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8-10 inches in height; vertical/free-standing format
Subject Description
A stylized female figure wearing a tall, flared headdress reminiscent of the Nefertari crown or a simplified 'Shuti' crown. The figure features elongated ears, a wire-coiled necklace common in Ndebele or Padaung traditions, and hands held in a gesture of prayer or offering.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; surface shows minor wear but retains a high polish with no visible structural cracks
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $75 USD
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a souvenir from a regional market or airport boutique; no specific labels or signatures visible in image
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of mid-century 'Airport Art' which blends various cultural motifs (Egyptian royalty and Sub-Saharan adornment) for global commercial appeal.
Notable Features
The inclusion of a non-traditional metal coil neck ring on a figure with Egyptian-style headgear indicates a cross-cultural decorative approach rather than historical accuracy.
Condition Issues
Minor surface scratches consistent with age; oxidation possibly present on the metal wire coil; light fading of the wood stain on the headdress edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a humidity-controlled environment to prevent wood splitting; dust with a soft, dry cloth; avoid direct sunlight to preserve the wood color.