Mid Century Modernist Wooden Female Nude Sculpture (Circa 1960)
A sculptural study in curve and quiet tension.
An expressive mid-20th century modernist carving of a kneeling female nude, reduced to pure form and rhythm. Compact in scale yet visually powerful, the figure balances strength and softness in a deeply patinated ebonised finish.
Key Features
• Mid century modernist carved wooden sculpture
• Abstracted kneeling female nude form
• Hand-carved from a single solid block
• Integral circular plinth
• Deep ebonised finish with natural highlights
• Strong curvilinear silhouette with pierced negative space
• Studio carving, not cast or mass-produced
• Compact scale ideal for shelf or console display
Full Description
This mid century modernist sculpture presents the female form as volume, contour and balance rather than literal representation. The kneeling pose — torso arched, arms raised — creates a dynamic silhouette, while the negative space beneath the upper arm introduces visual lightness and movement.
The anatomy is intentionally simplified. Facial detail is absent, allowing the viewer to engage with the piece as a sculptural study rather than portrait. The breasts, hips and thighs are rendered as smooth, flowing forms, emphasising mass and proportion.
Carved from solid wood with an integral plinth, the figure retains subtle tool marks to the underside — evidence of studio craftsmanship rather than cast production. The deep ebonised finish enhances the curvature, catching light along high points and lending the surface a quiet warmth.
Acquired from the collection of an African art collector, the piece carries a subtle resonance with the broader modernist dialogue between European studio carving and African sculptural influence. No specific regional attribution is made, but its expressive handling aligns with post-war studio traditions.
A contemplative object — intimate in scale yet sculpturally confident.
Dimensions
Height: 19.5 cm
Width: 14 cm
Depth: 8 cm
Materials
Solid carved wood
Ebonised stained finish
Hand-carved construction with integral base
Condition
Good vintage condition. Minor surface wear and age-related patina consistent with period. Natural shrinkage lines to the base, typical of solid wood. One small fracture line and repaid to arm, no structural instability.
Origin / Period
Mid 20th Century
Circa 1955–1975
From the collection of an African art collector.
Styling Suggestions
Ideal as a focal accent on a console table, bookshelf or desk. Works beautifully within mid century interiors, modernist schemes, or alongside textured ceramics and organic materials. Its compact scale makes it equally suited to intimate shelf styling or layered vignette arrangements.
Explore more pieces within our wider modernist collection to create a considered sculptural grouping.
FAQ
Q: Is this Art Deco?
A: While the stylised nude form may echo earlier movements, the carving technique and organic modelling place it firmly within mid-century modernist studio tradition.
Q: Is it a traditional African tribal sculpture?
A: There is no evidence to suggest traditional tribal origin. It is best understood as a mid-20th century modernist studio carving.
Q: Is the base separate?
A: No — the base is carved integrally from the same block of wood.
Unique Points
• Sculptural negative space enhances visual interest
• Studio-carved authenticity
• Elegant compact proportions
• Decorative yet art-led presence
• Provenance from a private African art collection
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Delivery typically takes 5–10 working days, depending on location and order timing.
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