Rare and interesting African late 18th /early 19th century scholars or prayer board from Mali,c1800. The wooden panel has been hand carved and shaped and both sides feature extensive Islamic script. On one side there is a star or pentangle a symbol with significance in Islam. Mali and in particular Timbuktu was a centre for scholarly excellence at a time when many historians believe Africa was culturally and intellectually ahead of Europe. The board is a good size weighing 1 kg and the wood has taken on great colour/patina after many years of use. It is in very good condition for its age with only very minor fading of the script and just a few knots and imperfections that occur naturally in wood. Please refer to the detailed photographs and feel free to contact me if you would like to view the item or have any queries.Price includes FREE UK delivery.Size: 54cm long x 18cm wide x 1cm deep, weight 1 kg.Curious Antiques specialises in sourcing fine, rare and unusual antiques...