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)
Would like to know what this…
Would like to know what this doll is worth, and where would I sell it ???
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:
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:
Estimated Value:
Recommendation:
To increase the accuracy of this valuation:
Selling Options (if for sale):