Maternity Figure (Mother and Child)
Sculpture, free-standing figurine • Unknown artisan, likely from a workshop specializing in tourist or export art inspired by Luba, Songye, or Makonde traditions
Style & Movement
African Tribal Art (Neo-traditional/Contemporary Export Art)
Medium & Technique
Carved hardwood with a dark stained and polished finish; features incised geometric patterns and relief carving
Creation Period
Late 20th century (c. 1970-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 60-80 cm in height; vertical portrait format
Subject Description
A standing female figure with an elongated neck and stylized facial features, holding an infant horizontally across her torso. The figure is decorated with extensive scarification patterns (diamonds and lines) on the chest and abdomen, and concentric swirl motifs on the scalp. It represents themes of fertility, lineage, and motherhood.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; retains high-gloss finish with minor surface abrasions
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via the secondary decorative market or international trade specialized in African handicrafts; no specific institutional labels visible in image
Art Historical Significance
While not an ethnographic field-collected piece from the pre-colonial era, it serves as a modern testament to the endurance of Central and East African aesthetic motifs in contemporary woodcarving. It reflects the global commercialization of traditional African iconography.
Notable Features
Distinctive concentric circular carvings on the head and rhythmic ringed neck; unusually high-gloss finish suggesting modern wax or lacquer application for the decorative market.
Condition Issues
Minor scuffing on the base and feet; potential light cracking (checking) inherent to tropical wood during humidity changes; slight surface dust in recessed carvings
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a stable environment with 40-50% humidity to prevent wood splitting; dust with a soft, natural-bristle brush; avoid direct sunlight to prevent bleaching of the dark stain.