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Wooden African Doll

By CCGrigg, 13 May, 2025
Description

Wooden African Doll, with a tin skirt...

Category
Dolls and Plush Toys
Condition
Fair
For Sale?
Yes
Photos

CCGrigg

1 month 2 weeks ago

Would like to know what this…

Would like to know what this doll is worth, and where would I sell it ???

No votes yet
Profile picture for user NaidaTheCollector

NaidaTheCollector

1 month 2 weeks ago

Wooden African Doll with Tin Skirt

Description:
This is a hand-carved wooden figure representing a stylized human form, with distinct facial features and painted detailing. It is dressed in what appears to be a tin skirt or apron, and painted with a bold palette—primarily black, red, blue, and metallic tones. The wear and aging to the paint indicate considerable age or intentional distressing to simulate an antique appearance.

Material:

  • Hand-carved wood (primary material)
  • Tin or metal sheet (used as part of the skirt)
  • Hand-painted in multiple layers with cracking and flaking evident

Origin & Style:
This piece is likely a folk art carving or a tourist trade sculpture inspired by African art, possibly from West or Central Africa. However, similar figures have also been produced outside of Africa in the mid-20th century as decorative or souvenir items, especially during the 1940s–1970s. The exaggerated features and bright colors are consistent with stylized representations rather than traditional tribal ceremonial figures.

Condition:

  • Fair: Noticeable paint loss, surface cracking, and some denting or wear on the metal skirt
  • Structurally intact

Estimated Value:

  • $40–$125, depending on origin, age, and provenance
  • If it's determined to be a true African tribal carving or mid-century folk art, it could go higher, especially in specialized auctions or ethnographic galleries

Recommendation:
To increase the accuracy of this valuation:

  • Try to determine country or tribal origin (e.g., Yoruba, Makonde, or tourist-style Makak carving)
  • Check for any maker's marks or labels on the bottom or back
  • Measure dimensions and provide them if listing for sale
  • Professional appraisal recommended if provenance is suspected to be authentic or ceremonial in origin

Selling Options (if for sale):

  • eBay (Global audience for folk art and ethnographic collectibles)
  • Etsy (Handmade and vintage-focused)
  • Chairish or 1stDibs (if item is part of a curated vintage/folk art collection)
  • Facebook Marketplace or local antique malls (for faster, regional interest)
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