A diverse collection of East African ethnographic objects, primarily crafted from dense, dark hardwood, possibly ebony, alongside traditional beadwork. The group features several Makonde style Tree of Life or Ujamaa sculptures, characterised by multiple intertwined human figures in a columnar form, often displaying the natural, lighter sapwood on the reverse. Included are various figurative carvings and busts, ranging from stylised to naturalistic depictions with textured hair and traditional facial features. One larger seated figure is adorned with multi-strand beadwork and cowrie shells. The collection contains a pair of decorative turned wood stands featuring central open-carved elephant figures with white bone or shell tusk inserts. Also present is a horizontal carving depicting an elephant procession on a textured base. A selection of wooden letter openers with figurative handles and a tapering wooden object with incised banding are part of the lot. The collection is completed by traditional beadwork, including a circular multi-coloured pendant necklace, a necklace of cowrie shells and dark beads with a shell-inlay cross, and a long strand of vibrant orange beads.
Condition report:
The items are in good overall condition with a dark, aged patina. General surface dust and minor wear consistent with age are present. Natural fissures and small stress cracks are visible in some of the hardwood pieces. One elephant in the procession carving appears to be missing a tusk.
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