African Abstract Mahogany Sculpture Inspired by Rodin and Henry Moore
A soulful East African modernist carving with the quiet gravity of Rodin and the flowing softness of Henry Moore.
A rare sculptural figure that feels both architectural and deeply human.
Key Features
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Rare hand-carved African abstract figure with Makonde modernist influence
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Sculpted from a single piece of richly toned African mahogany (Khaya spp.)
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Deep reddish-brown colour with a warm natural lustre and interlocked grain
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Expressive “thinker” pose inspired by Rodin’s contemplative forms
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Organic, mid-century curves reminiscent of Henry Moore sculpture
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Beautiful negative space creating shadow-play and visual movement
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Strong vertical presence with elegant balance and proportion
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Highly collectible example of East African modernist sculptural art
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Ideal statement piece for refined interiors, galleries, or curated shelves
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Circa 1960 — a genuine period work with artistic provenance
Full Description Notes
This remarkable African abstract mahogany sculpture captures East African modernism at its most intimate and contemplative. Hand-carved with fluid precision, the figure’s elongated limbs and softened edges show the unmistakable influence of the Makonde sculptural tradition associated with Tanzania and Mozambique — a celebrated movement known for blending traditional African artistry with modernist abstraction.
Carved from a single block of African mahogany, the surface reveals a warm reddish glow, subtle natural grain, and the kind of depth only found in dense carving woods prized across East Africa. The figure kneels in a quiet inward pose, evoking the timeless stillness of Rodin’s Thinker, while the smooth, rounded contours echo the sculptural language of Henry Moore and the mid-century modern aesthetic.
Standing at 51 cm tall, this piece carries real presence without overwhelming a space. Its open negative forms allow light to pass through, shifting shadows throughout the day and enhancing its sculptural drama. From every angle it offers a different rhythm — part figure, part abstract architecture — making it an exceptional object for collectors and design-led interiors.
A powerful and soulful addition for lovers of African art, abstract sculpture, and modernist decorative objects, offering not just form, but atmosphere.
Dimensions
Height: 51 cm
Width: 23 cm
Depth: 27 cm
Materials
Hand-carved African mahogany (Khaya spp.)
Carved from a single solid piece
Natural polished surface with aged patina and tonal warmth
Condition
As you can imagine, our pieces have lived a life before arriving with us and will show signs of natural ageing, wear, surface marks, fading, and small character details that form part of their authenticity. Overall the condition is good and fully commensurate with age, with a beautifully developed patina to the mahogany.
Origin / Period
East Africa (Makonde-influenced modernist school)
Circa 1960
Styling Suggestions
This sculpture is especially striking styled as a standalone object on a console table, bookcase, or pedestal where its negative space can cast shadows naturally. It pairs beautifully with mid-century interiors, minimalist settings, warm wood tones, stone textures, linen upholstery, and curated art-led spaces. A perfect addition beside ceramics, architectural books, or sculptural lighting.
FAQ
Q: Is this a vintage original or a modern reproduction?
A: This is a genuine vintage piece dating to circa 1960, with Makonde modernist influence and authentic age-related character.
Q: What is Makonde sculpture?
A: Makonde sculpture is a renowned East African carving tradition, particularly associated with Tanzania and Mozambique, celebrated for expressive modernist forms and masterful hand-carving.
Q: Is the sculpture carved from one piece of wood?
A: Yes, this figure has been carved from a single solid piece of African mahogany.
Q: Will the colour vary in different lighting?
A: Yes — the mahogany has a warm reddish tone that deepens beautifully under natural or directional lighting, highlighting the grain and contours.
Q: Are the props in the photos included?
A: No, unless specifically stated, any ornaments or props shown are not included.
Unique Points
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A rare collectible example of East African modernist sculpture
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Rodin and Henry Moore inspired “thinker” composition
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Makonde-influenced craftsmanship with strong provenance
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Richly grained African mahogany with glowing patina
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Striking negative space that creates sculptural shadow-play
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A true statement object for curated interiors and collectors
All your questions answered below...
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- Returns accepted
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Delivery & Shipping Information
We’re dedicated to delivering every order with care, reliability, and your satisfaction at the heart of what we do.
Fully insured UK mainland delivery is calculated at checkout (typically £12–£45). Larger furniture items may be £60+ depending on item size, access, and delivery postcode.
Please note: the listed price is for the item only. Delivery costs are calculated separately at checkout.
UK Delivery (Mainland)
We are based in Southsea, Portsmouth (PO5) and deliver nationwide across the UK.
Delivery charges are calculated based on the item’s size, weight, and destination to ensure the most accurate and fair pricing.
Free local delivery may be available depending on your location — please get in touch to check availability.
Delivery Areas & Coverage
We deliver to most UK regions and aim to provide the most efficient and cost-effective delivery options available.
For delivery addresses north of Newcastle, or within Wales, Scotland, the Highlands, Ireland, and offshore islands, please contact us before purchasing so we can confirm delivery availability and provide an accurate quote.
International Shipping
We can arrange international shipping worldwide.
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Delivery Times & Method
Delivery typically takes 5–10 working days, depending on location and order timing.
We use trusted specialist furniture couriers experienced in transporting antiques, vintage furniture, and fragile items, ensuring safe handling throughout transit.
Standard delivery is one-man delivery to ground floor only.
Assistance may be required unless a two-man delivery service is arranged at an additional cost.
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We can ship to most places. We have the ability to to send consignments Internationally and they are all professionally wrapped, packed and or crated for a safe and successful journey.
There is going to be additional costs and lead times depending on various factors.
The best advice is to get a quote before you decide to purchase any item/s.
Listed in every product description are the dimensions for each product.
This information is provided so you can check if the piece you wish to buy will fit in your home.
Please double check your dimensions. One, to make sure it will fit through any doorway in to your home. Secondly, to make sure it fits in the space you want to place in it in. If in doubt, ring for help!
Any questions please get in touch, here to help.
If you would like to speak to someone before placing an order, check dimensions or have a general question, please call Mark on 07973 154860.
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One last thing! Please double check your dimensions. One, to make sure it will fit through any doorway in to your home. Secondly, to make sure it fits in the space you want to place in it in. If in doubt, ring for help!
Here to help.
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