Sub-Saharan African Decorative Objects

Signed Zimbabwean Stone Sculpture, Abstract Modernist Form, 20th Century Height: 28 cm Width: 18 cm Material: Solid hand-carved stone Origin: Zimbabwe, Southern Africa Artist: Signed TAF KDZHIA, numbered 250 Date: 20th Century This striking African stone sculpture is a powerful example of 20th-century Zimbabwean Shona-inspired modernist carving, signed TAF KDZHIA and numbered 250. Hand-carved from a single block of solid stone, the sculpture presents a highly stylized abstract human form, characterized by flowing contours, rhythmic balance, and a serene, introspective presence. The composition demonstrates a refined mastery of form and negative space, with softly rounded planes contrasted by sharply incised linear details. The gently tilted head and simplified facial features evoke calm, contemplation, and spiritual depth—hallmarks of Zimbabwean contemporary stone sculpture. The natural stone displays a richly varied surface with organic green, grey, ochre, and earthy inclusions, enhancing both its tactile appeal and sculptural integrity. The polished finish highlights the stone’s natural veining while preserving subtle tool marks, underscoring the hand-carved nature of the work. Signed and numbered at the base, this piece reflects the growing international recognition of African modernist stone artists during the late 20th century, particularly those associated with Zimbabwe’s renowned sculpture movement. Ideal as a collector’s sculpture, gallery display piece, or architectural interior accent, this work bridges traditional African carving traditions with modern abstraction. It integrates effortlessly into contemporary, minimalist, and curated ethnographic interiors, offering both cultural significance and sculptural sophistication. Condition In very good condition overall, with natural surface variations inherent to the stone and the artist’s carving process. No structural damage observed. Please refer to images for detailed condition. Zimbabwean stone sculpture • African...

Dioptase, Omaue Mine, Kaokoveld Plateau, Kunene region, Namibia Measures: 8.5 cm tall x 7 cm wide Dioptase, once believed to be emerald when first encountered, is amongst the most vividly colored species. Large gem...

An African iron currency blade or sword from Nkutshu, the Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire), of the Topoke, Songo and Meno peoples, which is nicely presented upon a custom metal stand. Such blades were used by various tribal groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo as a form of currency. They were used to close a variety of important transactions such as land deals or the proposal of marriage. This African sword...

Carved from a single piece of hardwood, this Sowei helmet mask represents the Sande society's ritual use among the Mende people of Sierra Leone. The helmet-form base features a carve...

Early 20th Century African Antique Wood Comb with Human Head From the Chokwe Culture of Angola. A fine, old, much used comb with a glossy, glasslike patina...

The Kingfisher monkey was designed by Zimele Original Ceramics in South Africa.Hand painted by Victor Hand sculpted by Matrinah.The African Circus collection, in Victor's words: This...

The ceramic Leopard sculpture from Imvelo Natural Art in South Africa is a stunning piece, standing tall in a poised pose that exudes strength and grace. Hand-sculpted by Bernard and...

This handcrafted bronze candelabra is a sculptural tribute to the quiet strength and unity of the African buffalo. Three candleholders rise from gently curving branches adorned with ...

Wiseman Ndlovu specializes in handcrafted and painted ceramic pieces that often feature intricate designs and vibrant colors inspired by African culture and nature. His work is celeb...

The "Mother Monkey Sculpture" from Ardmore Ceramics, meticulously hand-sculpted and hand-painted by Sthabiso Hadebe, is a striking work of art that beautifully captures the essence o...

While shield and spear were central to African combat, this iron sword blade was most likely made to serve as a piece of trade currency. Many pre-colonization African currencies were...

Protea, Beetle Jewelry Box Hand-Painted by Jabu Nene, Sculpted by Sbusiso Ndaba Love Art Ceramic, South Africa, 2024 Embodying the vibrant essence of South Africa, the "Protea, Beet...

Jurassic - Cretaceous Period, 200 - 145 million years old Dimensions: 8 × 6.25 × 0.75 in. / 20 × 16 × 2 cm Dimensions on custom display stands: 10.5 × 5.5 × 3.5 in. / 27 × 14 × 9 c...

This exceptional Dioptase crystal cluster from the DRC embodies everything that makes this mineral so sought after among serious collectors. With its deep, emerald-green color and ge...

A finely cast bronze portrait head in the style of the ancient Yoruba kingdom of Ife, Nigeria. This dignified bust exhibits hallmark features of c...

Giraffe Head Jewelry Box Hand Painted by Winnie Mchunu and Sculpted by Sfiso The Giraffe Head Jewelry Box is a stunning example of handcrafted ceramic art from Love Art Ceramic in S...

From Nasik District, Maharashtra, India Large translucent cubic crystals of calcite on light pink heulandite crystal cluster matrix. The calcite has rich milky color with sharp term...

This thick coating of rare Cobaltoan calcite on host rock is beautifully crystallized with incredible natural sparkle and luster and truly the best hot pink color we have seen in thi...

A rare large early basket with bands of triangle decoration. Probably Hambukushu people Botswana, Africa. 1940s. Measures: 27cm H x 48cm W.

Made by the Yoruba Tribe from Benin they date back to the 19th century. Created for the royal family.

This is a wonderful piece likely made by the Mangetu tribe of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is finely detailed and quite large and hefty. These pieces were originally made...

Time-honored texture and form define this Nigerian copper sculptural object. The intricate geometry was achieved through a process known as scarification. The artisan would meticulou...

Introducing the Elephant Handle Vase, a stunning piece crafted by the skilled artisans at Zimele Ceramics in South Africa. This unique vase stand...

Whimsical Set of 10 Hand Carved African Mix Woods Animals Napkin Ring Holders , circa 1970's walnut , maple etc mahogany. Incredible pieces of scu...

Lustrous cluster of rhombohedral formation of calcite with heavy inclusions of brick red hematite. The calcite crystal faces are fully terminated with sharp rhombohedral form in a su...

From the world-famous Tsumeb Mine in Namibia, this specimen displays an outstanding combination of large, fully formed azurite crystals of rich, midnight blue hue with a dazzling lus...

Five Tribal Bronze Snuff Rings, Tiv Culture, Nigeria Brass or copper alloy 4.5 (11.4 cm) to 2.25 (6.7 cm) inches high 19th century A fascinating collection...

Zebra Jewelry Box Hand Painted by Jabu Nene, Sculpted by Motsamai Sello Love Art Ceramic, South Africa The Zebra Jewelry Box is a stunning ceramic mas...

Bamileke throne made with wood, coated with jute, embroidered with polychrome glass beads, cowrie snails, embroidery with glass beads that are missing in some areas. In the Grassfiel...

Introducing the magnificent Ceramic Leopard Urn, a masterpiece born from the skilled hands of Senzo Duma Ceramics in the heart of South Africa. Crafted with meticulous attention to ...

With its many blades and dramatic form, this impressive throwing knife would have been a status symbol and a form of currency among the Ngombe peoples o...

Museum quality, huge hand-polished free-form specimen, made from a solid piece of natural Madagascan Ocean Jasper. This large piece has an amazing pattern with beautiful hues of gree...

Early Ghost Like Kumu Mask With Kaolin Open Eyes Mouth Teeth, Congo, Africa It is in good condition with wear, polish and erosion from traditional use, appropriate for its age, use,...

While shield and spear were central to African combat, this iron example was most likely made to serve as a piece of trade currency. Many pre-colonization African currencies were modeled after objects of inherent value, resulting in sculptural combinations of function and beauty. This large iron spear dates to the early 20th century and is attributed to the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Secured to a narrow iron handle, the flattened blade has an elegant, sloping silhouette, subtly textured with concentric grooves and a rusted, antique patina. Forged as a broadleaf spear, the weapon contrasts a violent potential with images of peaceful branches swaying in the wind. We've set this unusual Kuba spear...

Vintage African Tuareg Silver Outer Layer on Ebony Wood Jewelry Box. Rectangular form Islamic Tuareg Jewelry Box. Gorgeous Islamic jewelry treasure trink...

The Royal Elephant with Leopard Skin, crafted by Zimele Ceramics in South Africa, is a stunning ceramic sculpture that stands 8 high and measures 8 in both length and width. This exq...

This hand‑polished labradorite freeform displays the vivid iridescent flash that makes this feldspar mineral so sought after. Brilliant blue, green, and gold labradorescence sweeps a...

Top quality, center-of-a-choice petrified wood sphere from Madagascar. This incredible specimen is shaped from a solid piece of petrified wood. Hand-polished to a mirrored finish. It has an amazing pattern with vibrant hues of brown, red, and orange. Fossilized Petrified Wood, which is also known as Agatized Wood...

This is a pair of African iron currency blade or sword currency from the Nkutshu, Topoke & Songo Meno peoples, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire) which are nicely presented upon custom metal stands. Such blades were used by various tribal groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo as a form of currency. They were used to close a variety of important transactions such as land deals or the proposal of marriage. These African sword...

Pair of African Sculptures — Heavy Hardwood, Primitivist Style Description: This is a pair of African sculptures carved from exceptionally heavy, high-quality hardwood, displaying r...

A finely carved Lwalwa maternity figure holding a baby from Democratic Republic of Congo in Central Africa circa 20th century. The statue was acquired in 2006 from the collection of Jean-Pierre Hallet Collection of African Art. The figure, with her robust body and a strong stand, wears a classic Lwalwa mask...

From Shaba Copper Belt, Katanga (Shaba) Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo (Zaire) A sculptural velvet botryoidal formation of solid velvety green malachite from the famou...

Take your pick from our most unusual pumpkin patch! This ceramic Jack-o'-lantern, part of our Pumpkin Patch Collection, blends the rich textures and traditions of South Africa with t...

This stunning Flamingo Coin Dish from Love Art Ceramics beautifully captures the essence of South African wildlife and its rich botanical landscape. Sculpted by Sbu and Nathi, and ha...

Introducing the Wiseman Ceramics Leopard Bust, a stunning piece hand-sculpted by Thabo Mbhele and painted by Wiseman Ndlovu. From the revered Big Five Col...

Elephant Vase The Elephant Vase is an extraordinary piece of ceramic decorative art that beautifully embodies the spirit of South Africa’s wildlife. Craf...

Introducing the captivating "Lion Vase," a stunning piece of ceramic decorative art created by the talented artists from Love Art Ceramic in South Africa. Sculpted by Motsamai Sello ...

Take your pick from our most unusual pumpkin patch! This ceramic Jack-o'-lantern, part of our Pumpkin Patch Collection, blends the rich textures and traditions of South Africa with t...

The Rhino aloe vase was designed by Zimele Original Ceramics in South Africa.Hand painted by Lindy Hand sculpted by Victor & Sello.The African Circus collection, in Victor's words: ...

Top quality, beautiful polished cross-section of Ocean Jasper from Madagascar. It often includes vugs lined with white or green druzy quartz crystals. It is found in only one place i...

This vibrant ceramic Nguni ornament, crafted by Zimele Ceramics in South Africa, is a detailed tribute to the beloved Nguni cattle, skillfully hand-sculpted by Mbeke and vividly pain...

This Piece is very primitive. Its a mid to early 20th century piece. Its carved from ironwood and depicts a family tree of a family from Tanzania. The carving is very detailed.

African Mali cast bronze figural helmet on stand, 20th century Offered for sale is a mid-20th century African lost wax cast bronze figural helmet o...

Succulent Bird Jewelry Box Hand Painted by Winnie Mchunu and Sculpted by Motsamai Sello The Succulent Bird Jewelry Box is a stunning ceramic art piece ...

Beautifully stylized figurine with a great balance of harmony stood, portraying the inner world's beauty through pure beauty. This Valuable unique art piece is a great chance to bring your office or home decor and interior an artistic characteristic. Ancient-style Egyptian Dolphin...

From Nani Hill, Loliondo, Ngorongoro district, Arusha, Tanzania Large trapezohedral crystal of transparent orange spessartine garnet with no matrix attached. Has lustrous faces with...

AAA-quality Polychrome Jasper Freeform. This beautiful specimen has multi-colored veins of Chalcedony from Madagascar. Beautiful multi-colored rock that usually exhibits a circular, ...

Museum quality, huge hand-polished point specimen, made from a solid piece of natural Madagascan Ocean Jasper. This large piece has an amazing pattern with beautiful hues of green, b...

Pomegranate Monkey Jewelry Box The Pomegranate Monkey Jewelry Box is a stunning piece of ceramic decorative art created in South Africa by the talented...

This unique Pair of Flamingoes & Lily Flower Candlesticks by Senzo Duma Ceramics is a testament to South African artistry, meticulously hand-sculpted by Phomotso Mafura and vibrantly...