No.01 Makonde Walking Stick
Wood
Origin: Southern Africa (Tanzania region; influenced by DRC tribes)
Interesting facts: Wood carving has ancient roots for the Makonde tribe. This is because according to the Makonde creation myth, there was once a single man on earth, who, out of loneliness carved a figure out of wood and set it in the sun. This figure then became a woman and she and the man conceived three children, of which, only one survived. It is said to believe that this child only survived because the man and woman decided to move from the river bottom to the highland forests in Southern African (the Ruvuma River bordering Tanzania and Mozambique). This child then became the first Makonde.
This piece is a carved wooden stick which depicts a wonderfully detailed figure of a Makonde head. The Makonde people have continued to adjust and adapt their craft throughout the years and this specific piece has been shaped for the European market but still contains central elements that are very connected to the Makonde people. The strong relationship of this piece to the creation myth is what makes this piece so special. The detailed carvings on the head of the piece and the skilful carving of the peaceful expression on the face adds to the beauty and overall excellence of the piece.
Wood
Origin: Southern Africa (Mozambique region)
Weight | 0.5 kg |
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Dimensions | 89 × 3 × 4 cm |