Tribal Decorative Objects

Abstract and sculptural, this wooden form demonstrates the timeless appeal of African art. Hand-carved to an hourglass shape, the unusual figure is actually a grinding mortar, compri...

Contemporary Chinese black and white tribal pattern vase. Decorative tribal dot within circle pattern.

Noted for its individualistic, egalitarian, and progressive society, the Baule of Cote D'Ivoire were master craftspeople. This chair features their characteristically well polished w...

This highly decorative box is a betal nut box. The habit of chewing was relevant in the southern Philippines and much of southeast Asia. Wealthy Maraneo families on the island of Mi...

Sometimes referred to as dolls, this is a highly abstract figure with conical head, arms and legs held out from body, long columnar neck wrapped with mulitple strands of different si...

TRIBAL ART Large traditional puppet figurine with articulated arms. Polychrome hardwood resting on its steel base. A favorite for this old puppet figurin...

Handmade fired clay decorative bowl with central eye motif and labyrinth pattern throughout. The rough textured surface and exterior of bowl is a wonderful and unique display of thi...

Ovoid pots were an elegant storage solution in African tribal life. This beautifully balanced example is attributed to the Toussian people of Western Burkina Faso. Masterfully made to protect its contents from the elements, pots such as this one were coiled by female ceramists to hold food or personal...

To cure mental and physical ailments, Yoruba priests and diviners invoke the aid of Osanyin, the god of herbal medicines. Used in divination rituals to cure the afflicted, this iron ...

On offer is a Lega Bwami society wooden mask from the Democratic Republic of Congo. It was likely from the first half of the 20th century and an authentic in-field piece. The mask di...

A rare repuse shield with natural fiber wraped handle from the Kirdi tribe Cameroon. Now on a patinated Bronze Stand. For a similar example please see- Benitez-Johannot, Purissim...

An old and authentic votive board representing the spirit of water, Shamanic, Primitive Arts, Tribal Art, Brutalist, Shabby-Chic, in carved wood and painted with patina due to use, characteristic work of the creations of the Kwoma people , Washkuk Mountains, Upper Sepik region, Papua New Guinea, 1950. This votive board comes from the former collection of a French diplomat...

A Papua New Guinea yam festival mask of a horn-billed bird from the mid-20th century. This vintage ceremonial mask, also referred to as a baba mask, originates from the Abelam people...

Early 20th Century West African Tribal Figurine in Cast Brass. Very distinct early to mid 20th century tribal figurine in cast brass from the west of Africa. Great and very typical ...

A LARGE AND IMPRESSIVE CARVED STATUE OF A MAASAI HUNTER Circa 1950 Kenya. Almost a lifesize figure of a sitting Maasai hunter holding his spear impressively capturing his character...

This small Baule bronze elephant from Côte d’Ivoire possesses a lively, spirited presence. Its rounded body, broad ears, sturdy legs, and dramatically rai...

Two ancient tribal urns / amphora / pottery / vases / pitchers / ceramics from the ancient khmer region (present day cambodia).

Wonderful spear form currency with spiral loops below the spear head festooned with three 'bells' on each side. An appealing design executed by a master craftsman. Beautifully mounte...

Woman’s Back Ornament, egbe Mangbetu people DR Congo Early 20th century Banana leaves and bark,, raffia embroidery 14” long (35.5 cm); 10.5” high (26.5 cm); 3” deep (7.5 cm) The ...

Hand-Carved African Soapstone Bust Sculpture, 15 cm This striking hand-carved African soapstone bust is a fine example of traditional African tribal-inspired artistry. Expertly sculpted from a single piece of natural dark soapstone, the figure features an elongated head, expressive facial features, and a finely detailed beard, showcasing the skill and craftsmanship of the artisan. The polished black stone surface contrasts beautifully with the textured carved hair, creating a distinctive and visually captivating decorative object. Measuring 15 cm in height, this compact sculpture is ideal for display on a desk, bookshelf, mantelpiece, or within a curated collection of ethnographic art. The natural variations in the stone add character and uniqueness, ensuring that no two pieces are exactly alike. Perfect for collectors of African art, tribal sculptures, folk art, and handcrafted stone carvings, this decorative bust brings cultural richness and timeless elegance to both contemporary and traditional interiors. Details: * Material: Natural hand-carved soapstone * Origin: African, likely Zimbabwean * Height: 15 cm (5.9 inches) * Colour: Black with natural stone variations * Style: Tribal / Ethnographic / Folk Art * Condition: Vintage condition with age-related wear and natural stone characteristics African soapstone sculpture...

A decorative wedding necklace from Ethiopia, circa 1980. Stitched in leather with bead and money cowry shells, plus metal trimmings. Mounted on a bespoke black metal stand.

A Dan finely carved wood prestige spoon or ladle, from the Dan people of Ivory Coast, West Africa. Spoons like this were used by the most prominent woma...

An African currency bracelet on a custom black steel mount. Bracelet alone measures 4.5"W x 1.5"D x 4.75"H.  

Two ancient terra cotta pottery vessels, Urns or Vases from the Khmer region of South East Asia. Sober forms that provides a complement to a Mid-Century or modern environment.

This remarkable yellow vase by French designer Vanessa Mitrani exemplifies her celebrated approach to glass as a living, experimental material. Hand-blown directly over an authentic ...

A fantastically hand-crafted piece by the Kota (or Bakota) tribe who are located in the northeastern region of Gabon. This figure, which is a Mahongwe reliquary figure as exhibited with its truncated almond-shaped face, is made of wound copper, hammered brass and wood. Reliquary figures were used as guardians to protect the revered bones of venerated family ancestors and leaders and ward off unwanted spirits. These figures are meant to embody intense powers and were also commonly used in communal rites and ritual performances. This particular piece came from an American collector who traveled the African continent and collected African artifacts for over 50 years. This piece has a beautiful, organically aged patina acquired naturally over time and use. It is mounted on a custom wooden display stand. We believe it dates back to the early to mid-1900s but could be older. We are listing as 20th century because we did not have it appraised. This African Tribal Statue Osseyba or Reliquary Figure Kota (Bakota) Mohongwe Peoples decorative art would clearly stand out as part of a collection or by itself in any setting. Truly unique, eye-catching and engaging. Dimensions on stand: 25 3/4" High, 7" Wide, 5 1/2" Deep Kota Reliquary...

Handcrafted carved wooden object from Benin, dating from the 1950s. This cylindrical piece is richly decorated with figurative scenes depicting figures and tropical vegetation, finel...

Congolese Fang Carved Mask Sculpture on a metal base. A "fang mask" refers to a type of ceremonial mask created by the Fang people, an ethnic group from Central Africa, primarily fo...

Papua New Guinea standing male figure carved hardwood fragment, possibly from canoe? Back broken away and then cut and smoothed (probably by original baser) Based on period block of...

Large heavy Ashanti Akan cast brass elements necklace with two large circular pendants, from Ghana or Ivory Coast, Africa. Finely worked lost wax cast pieces in cascading form from...

This small Baule bronze gecko from Côte d’Ivoire is rendered with a charming balance of naturalism and stylization. Its elongated body, splayed legs, and ...

Cast in bronze and shaped as an open circular form, this African currency object embodies the union of wealth, artistry, and social identity. Its smooth, monumental silhouette and ri...

A figurative sculpture representing a stylized male figure, made of solid wood and displaying an antique dark brown to black patina, evidence of long aging. The figure is distinguish...

African Guinea Contemporary (Late 1990s) carved wood iconic Baga sculpture titled “Rearing Snake” depicts a serpent representing the spirit A-Mantsho-nga-Tshol, painted green and whi...

Antique Tlaquepaque Mexican redware pottery centrepiece bowl, c. 1930's. Hand painted with Art Deco floral design, with overglaze.

This expressive monoxyl bowl from Nagaland, northeastern India, was hand-carved from a single piece of solid wood. Its deep circular basin is framed by two sculptural handles decorat...

An incredible early 20th century Makenge hand-built ceramic palm wine pot with a graceful shape including a narrow neck and a wide belly. The pot is covered ...

This finely cast African currency ring transforms the concept of wealth into a work of art. Its open circular form is animated by delicate geometric motifs and pierced ornamentation,...

Pair of hand-carved wooden woman/man bust statues - 20th bookend - Art - Tribal Measures : 23,5x15cm H:44,5cm Wear consistent with age and use : see photos

This exquisite Yoruba beaded king’s hat is a masterwork of royal artistry, embodying the prestige, spirituality, and ceremonial grandeur of Yoruba court culture. Densely adorned with...

Early 20th century African carved wood figural sculpture attributed to the Boukonfo Loba tradition. The composition depicts two stylized human figures joined in a dynamic, sculptural...

A striking Makonde Shetani wood sculpture from Tanzania, this expressive carved figure exemplifies the creativity, craftsmanship, and spiritual symbolism of East African tribal art. Hand-carved from wood, the sculpture reflects the distinctive style of the Makonde people, known for their dynamic forms, imaginative compositions, and deeply expressive sculptural traditions. The figure features an abstract, organic form with dramatic curves, elongated shapes, and intricate carved details that showcase the artist’s skill and interpretation of the Shetani spirit figures. Traditionally associated with the spiritual world, Makonde Shetani sculptures are celebrated for their powerful presence, surreal qualities, and ability to transform natural materials into compelling works of art. The rich texture and natural warmth of the wood create a sense of depth and character, making this sculpture equally suited to sophisticated contemporary interiors and collections of tribal and modern art. Whether displayed on a pedestal, console, or within a curated gallery setting, it offers both sculptural presence and cultural significance. Highly sought after by collectors of African art, ethnographic objects, and modern sculpture, Makonde Shetani figures remain admired for their originality, expressive energy, and exceptional craftsmanship. This sculpture represents a unique opportunity to acquire an authentic example of Tanzanian wood...

A very rare and collectable group or family of slip pottery figurines from West Australian Darbyshire. The set of 3 consists of a squatting elder Gentleman, a mother breast-feeding h...

This exquisite 19th-century Moroccan ceramic bowl from Fez showcases traditional craftsmanship with its vibrant polychrome decoration. The bowl features an intricate geometric and floral design rendered in shades of deep blue, green, and yellow, characteristic of Fez pottery...

Elegant wrought-iron equestrian sculpture attributed to the Dogon people of Mali, probably dating from the 20th century. It depicts a stylized rider brandishing a long spear while mo...

Masouleh Tower 3 Sculpture. Also it can be used as small bookcase. Material: Zelkova This work is carved from log with some kinds of chainsaws. Most of wood used for his works are ...

African D.R Congo reliquary basket with four painted figures with two having red paint pigments and the other having white paint pigments with a spiral horn ascending from the top G...

Large Red Offering Tray, Burma Late 19th/early 20th century Bamboo, lacquer ...

Name: City man Sculptural stool by Hiroyuki Nishimura and zone carved furniture Material: Zelkova This work is carved from log with some kinds of chainsaws. This work is stool, smal...

This nomadic object has been diverted from its original use. It is a unique genuine old piece with undeniable authentic charm. The signs of wear, scars and repairs testify to the ric...

A set of three African currency bracelets on custom black steel stands. Bracelets alone measure 3.5"W x .5"D x 3.5"H approximately.

A striking pair of hand-carved solid ebony sculptural bookends depicting stylized male and female busts, executed in a refined African Modernist manner, circa 1970s. Carved from sin...

A Keris burlwood hilt from South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Late 19th Century, possibly earlier. The Keris (or Kris) is a Javanese asymmetrical dagger, famous for its distinctive wavy bl...

Vintage carved wooden vessel featuring an intricate turtle finial and hand-carved geometric patterns throughout. The warm, dark wood finish and distinctive craftsmanship give this de...

Very large powerful Dan Guere or We mask from the Ivory Coast Africa ex Fearing collection. Strong mask with projecting tubular eyes, projecting carved wood tusks over forehead, lar...

Carved out of a single block of wood, this Gabon Fang male reliquary statue of stylized proportion impresses the viewers with a robust stance and meditative expression. Traditionally...

Collection of Six Mwana Hiti Dolls Crested Hair Tanzania Africa. Mwana hiti, a term that means some variant of "child made of wood", refers to iconic figures that depict a highly st...

West African hand beaded head dress crown from Yoruba, Nigeria. This artistic beautiful and functional art piece is covered with beads in ivory, red and black colors with faces bird...

El Nido Sculptural lamp. Material: Japanese yew This work is carved from log with some kinds of chainsaws. Most of wood used for his works are unable to use anything, these woods a...

A unique and interesting hand carved antique Indian architectural remnant, part of a corbel, that was salvaged at some point in time. The forms in the carving are a Naga (dragon), hu...