An Early 20th Century African Carved Wood Ngoni Figure

Name: An Early 20th Century African Carved Wood Ngoni Figure
Brand: Antique
SKU: SA1081222
Availability: SoldOut

1900 - 1920

Sold by Tinker & Toad

Description

An African Carved Wood Ngoni Figure, Early 20th Century: This charming example of African artistry depicts a crouching man from the Ngoni tribe, intricately carved holding a knife and wood carving or sharpening stone. Dating to the first half of the 20th Century, the figure showcases a body crafted in three distinct parts: a fixed head, adjustable arms, and a solid main body piece. The piece displays a beautiful coloration and patina, adding to its allure as a decorative tribal art object.

The Ngoni people, an ethnic group predominantly found in modern-day Southern African nations such as Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, trace their ancestry back to the Nguni and Zulu peoples from kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The dispersion of the Nguni populations following the Zulu wars led to significant social reorganisation, extending as far north as Malawi and Zambia. This wood carving stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Ngoni people.

Physical Dimensions

Height

37cm (14.57")

Width

20cm (7.87")

Depth

30cm (11.81")

Declaration

Tinker & Toad has dated this piece to the 1920s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1081222

Description

“

Dating to the first half of the 20th Century, the figure showcases a body crafted in three distinct parts: a fixed head, adjustable arms, and a solid main body piece.

Tinker & Toad

The piece displays a beautiful coloration and patina, adding to its allure as a decorative tribal art object.

fig 1. An Early 20th Century African Carved Wood Ngoni Figure

The Ngoni people, an ethnic group predominantly found in modern-day Southern African nations such as Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, trace their ancestry back to the Nguni and Zulu peoples from kwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The dispersion of the Nguni populations following the Zulu wars led to significant social reorganisation, extending as far north as Malawi and Zambia. This wood carving stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the Ngoni people.