African wood carving mid twentieth century possibly from Zambia

Collectibles : Ethnographic : African Art : Sculpture

 

This is a heavy-for-its size (about six pounds) sculpture in a heavy wood like mahogany, measuring about 10" high by about 5" on a side. In addition to the dark heavy wood, with teeth possibly made of ivory or bone, there is carefully applied white paint detail in the eyes. Carved into the base are the words "Ngambela Mataa". I have googled the term and it seems to be applied to a figure who was in Zambia in the late 19th century to as late as 1928, when there was some murder there. I don't know what to make of it without spending more time researching this. The art was likely made for travelers, it seems, but it does have some age to it; note the old faded green velvet on the base, placed there to prevent scratching of furniture. I've owned it myself about twenty years, having acquired it in the San Francisco area in the very late 1980's. Condition is excellent and this is ready for display in your ethnographic and tribal collection. See hundreds of paintings and prints in my shop as well. Shipping wizard figures are guesstimates.

Item ID: JB01365