WEST AFRICAN CARVED HEAD

Spectacular Sculpted Bust of a Man
West Africa (likely Yoruba)
Mid-20th Century or earlier

Material: Single Block of Carved Wood (dense hardwood), Natural Pigment and Dark Patina

Provenance: Private European collection

A masterfully executed hand-carved wood bust. Rendered from a single block of dense, heavily patinated hardwood, the sculpture depicts a male figure with a regal and introspective gaze, offering an incredible dialogue between natural realism and stylisation that characterises classical West African sculptural arts.

Possessing a rich, dark patina from age and historical handling, the piece displays incredible character, highlighting the artist's immense technical control over a challenging medium.

The artist has focused on the dome-like skull, carved with exquisite geometric symmetry, featuring faint, finely incised herringbone and linear scarification patterns across the crown to represent hair.

The countenance of the figure is incredibly serene yet authoritative with large, heavily-lidded, almond-shaped eyes, deeply carved with raised borders. The broad, naturally modeled nose and full, firmly set lips are offset by slightly flared ears positioned symmetrically on either side. Tracing down to the stout neck, the artist has carved intricate, textured patterns across the flared base that mimics a ceremonial collar or textile pattern. 

Condition 
The bust remains in an excellent state of preservation, with very minor fissures expected of historic hardwoods. 

Presented unmounted, this sculpture represents a rare opportunity for collectors of African art to acquire a piece of incredible craftsmanship. 

Please contact us before purchase, if you want this piece mounted on a solid wood plinth.