Skip to main content
Home

Main navigation

  • Free Appraisals
    • Get a Free Appraisal
    • View Appraisals
    • Local Appraisers
  • Classifieds
  • Blog
  • Shows
    • Antique Shows, Flea Markets, & Swap Meets Map
    • Upcoming Shows
User Menu
  • Login
  • Help
  • Register

Breadcrumb

  1. Home

African tribal wooden carving

By needcashdamn, 13 February, 2025
Description

Miscellaneous African tribal hand carved piece

Category
Decorative Arts
Medium
Made of a hard wood
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
14 inches tall, 3.5 inches wide
Weight
5 lbs 6 oz
For Sale?
Yes
Photos
Profile picture for user NaidaTheCollector

NaidaTheCollector

4 months 2 weeks ago

African Tribal Wooden Carving

Item Overview

  • Category: Decorative Arts
  • Medium: Hardwood
  • Size: 14 inches tall, 3.5 inches wide
  • Weight: 5 lbs 6 oz
  • Condition: Excellent
  • For Sale: Yes

Identification and History

This is a hand-carved African tribal bust, likely originating from West or Central Africa. Such carvings are commonly produced by artisans in regions like Nigeria, Ghana, the Ivory Coast, or the Congo, where woodcarving traditions are deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual practices. The detailed facial features, elongated neck, and intricate head pattern suggest it could be influenced by Makonde (Tanzania & Mozambique), Yoruba (Nigeria), or Baule (Ivory Coast) art styles.

These sculptures often depict ancestral figures, spiritual leaders, or idealized human forms, serving both decorative and ritualistic purposes in African cultures.

Value Estimate

The value of African tribal wood carvings varies significantly based on authenticity, age, craftsmanship, and provenance. Based on similar pieces sold in the market:

  • Modern Hand-Carved Decorative Busts: $50 - $150
  • Authentic Tribal Carvings (Early-Mid 20th Century): $200 - $600+
  • Rare or Museum-Quality Pieces: $1,000+

Your piece appears to be in excellent condition with good detailing. If it is genuine vintage (mid-20th century or earlier), it could be in the $200 - $400 range. However, if it is a more recent carving for the tourist/collector market, its value is likely between $75 - $150.

Recommendation for Professional Appraisal

If you suspect this piece has significant age or historical importance, I recommend a professional appraisal. You can consult:

  1. Tribal Art Dealers or Auction Houses (e.g., Sotheby’s, Bonhams, or smaller regional tribal art specialists).
  2. University or Museum Experts specializing in African art.
No votes yet
  • Log in or register to post comments

Today’s Featured Blog

How to Start a Collection: Tips for Beginners

More Blog articles…

Recent Appraisals

  • antique umbrella holder
  • Mack 1 Appraisal Request
  • Ceramic pottery tray with agate finish
  • Paul Hanson Hand Painted Lamps
  • gone with the wind hurricane lamp
  • Blenko Blue Glass bowl with gold foot 14.5"
  • ROBERT BERRAN OFFSET LITHOGRAPH ADVERTISEMENTS DONE FOR CONN Ltd 1974
  • CLOCKUP PUBLICATIONS #27
  • National Theatre Supply Company Sirryplex projector. a-c motor model # 5ksa47ci, type ksa, frame 4/7, form, c, volts 110, with many pieces and parts
  • Lladro girl with flowers
See more appraisals…

Recent Appraisal Comments

  • Antique Art Nouveau Ceramic Box (Attributed to Carl Sigmund Lube
  • Antique Or Vintage Ceramic Umbrella Stand
  • Any help as to what this may…
  • Painting - Possibly Alfred Fontville De Breanski Jr
  • Has been on the wall of our…
  • Pair of Paul Hanson Hand-Painted Table Lamps
  • Handcrafted Ceramic Tray with Agate Glaze Pattern
  • Hand-Painted Gone with the Wind Hurricane Lamp
  • Blenko Handmade Glass Bowl – Blue with Gold Foot (14.5")
  • Robert Berran Limited Edition Lithograph Set for C.G. Conn Ltd.

Recent Blog Articles

  • How to Start a Collection: Tips for Beginners
  • Beyond the Price Tag: The Hidden Factors That Influence Antique and Collectible Value
  • Beyond the Price Tag: Unlocking the Hidden Stories in Your Family Heirlooms
  • Antiques as an Investment: Beyond the Hype, What's Actually Worth It?
  • Is it Real or Just Really Old? Your Guide to Spotting Fake Antiques (and How to Protect Yourself)
  • Beyond the Dust: Unearthing the Stories Behind Your Antiques (and Why Knowing Matters)
  • Unlocking Time's Treasures: Your Essential Vintage Watch Value Guide

More Blog articles…

© 1995- InstAppraisal™, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide
Privacy Policy, Cookie Policy, Terms and Conditions, End User License Agreement