Showing posts with label Africa. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Africa. Show all posts

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Shona Serpentine Carving

Although Shona Carving has been around for over a 1000 years, It became worldwide known in the 50's and 60's When Artist Frank McEwen introduced it to the Western world by showcasing at various International exhibits. 

Frank McEwen was an English Artist appointed the curator of the new National Gallery in Harare in 1957, where he taught informal art lessons to the community. He was very moved and impressed with the talent he saw, although he introduced more modern sculpting and painting technique he encouraged the artists to gain inspiration from within, using Folklore, Shona Mythology and spiritual power.

Shona are took a huge leap in popularity and production when a local South African born white tobacco farmer named Tom Blomfield welcomed local sculptures to use his land rich in extensive deposits of Serpantine, creating diversity and a community of working artists. 

By the 1970s Shona Sculptures where being shown in exhibits at the MOMA in New York, the Artists Gallery in Cape town and Feingarten in Los Angeles. Thus furthering the popularity to the Shona Sculptures. 

The Shona movement has continued to thrive and grow, Artists have continued to evolve in technique and style, growing with the times, making them extremely sought after sculptures. Their one of kind beauty, detail and quality make them a wonderful addition for any home. 















Sunday, March 24, 2013

Antique Mid Century African Marka Tribal Mask by AntiqueAlchemists








Exquisite small Marka ceremonial mask from Mali.

Delicately carved Wood, repousse bronze, tin metal with red fiber tassels. 

The Antelope is seen to be a mythical creature with great speed and endurance, that helped teach men to farm, The horns on this beauty are representative of the Antelope, commonly seen in Marka masks. The combination of animal and human is thought to provide wearer the speed and agility of an Antelope. 

Although Marka mask share very similar characteristics with the neighboring Bambara tribe, Marka masks are know for there intricate detailing with bronze copper or tin, representing the scarification of the Marka hunter. Their beautiful detailing is very distinctive from other African masks. 

The mask has the classic elongated face and nose, downward eyes and small pursed lips commonly found in Mali masks. The lips represent the importance and significance of being silent and virtuous. The downward eyes represent humility and respect. 

These ceremonial mask where used to ensure successful hunts and harvests, also used in the very important circumcision ceremony, transitioning boy to man, legitimizing him as a full member of their society.

Mid 20th Century. Great Antique Condition with a wonderful patina. 
Normal Wear from age. Scratching on bottom of horns. 
There are 2 small holes on each side of mask for hanging. 
Measures 10 ½’’ Long total and 4 ½’’ Wide. 

Shipping Price is Via Air with Tracking and Full Insurance. 

All Orders can downgrade to Surface which is much more economical, this is only a good option if time is not an issue as delivery time can be 4-6 weeks for international shipments and 10-15 days for USA. Will include full insurance. Canadian shipping is priced at the most economic pricing available. 

Please message me prior to ordering so shipping can be updated for you.