East African Ebony Mother & Child Sculpture – A Mid-Century Carving of Grace and Heritage
A Story Carved in Ebony: Exploring East African Craftsmanship
Sculpted from richly toned East African ebony, this mid-century mother-and-child figure embodies tenderness, cultural symbolism, and remarkable artisan skill. Standing 34.5 cm tall and weighing approximately 1.8 kg, the sculpture’s presence is immediately felt — not only through its physical density, but through the quiet emotion carried in its form.
This expressive carving portrays a kneeling mother, her child held close, with a bundled load resting high on her back. Such scenes were commonly depicted in East African workshop carvings of the 1950s–60s, created primarily in Kenya and Tanzania for both local use and international export. The sculpture’s deep black surface, highlighted with warm reddish-brown undertones, is characteristic of true ebony — a wood so dense it stays black even when scored.
The figure’s gentle curves, balanced proportions and confident weight make it a striking statement piece for collectors and design lovers alike. Whether displayed on its own or combined with complementary African art, it brings a sense of grounded beauty into any interior.
If you enjoy this sculpture, you may also like our curated Décor section and the wider range of pieces in our Art collection.
Key Features
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Hand-carved from genuine East African solid ebony
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Height 34.5 cm, weight approx. 1.8 kg
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Depicts a kneeling mother carrying a child and bundle
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Mid-century carving attributed to Kenyan or Tanzanian artisans
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Deep black ebony with natural reddish-brown tonal variations
Who This Piece Speaks To
This sculpture is perfect for:
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Art collectors seeking authentic African works
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Interior designers curating warm, textural spaces
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Homeowners who appreciate handcrafted objects with cultural depth
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Enthusiasts of mid-century global craft traditions
FAQ
What makes East African ebony special?
East African ebony (Diospyros species) is an exceptionally dense hardwood known for its naturally dark colour, fine grain and durability — highly prized in traditional carving.
Is this sculpture authentic mid-century work?
The style, form, and material strongly align with exported Kenyan and Tanzanian carvings from the mid-20th century, making it consistent with mid-century craftsmanship.
How should I display this piece?
Place it on a console, pedestal, or bookshelf where light can highlight the depth of the ebony tones. It pairs beautifully with other carved wooden or natural-material décor.
