Naïve Folk Art Wooden Bust of a Mythical Man – Hand Carved
A powerful expression of naïve folk artistry, this hand-carved wooden bust captures the imagined presence of a mythical man — bold, enigmatic, and rich with storytelling charm.
Key Features
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Hand-carved from a single solid piece of naturally aged timber
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Distinctive naïve folk art character with sculptural presence
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Expressive stylised facial features with a strong square jawline
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Oriental-style hairline adding cultural intrigue
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Carved collar of concentric rings encircling the neck
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Striking geometric grid pattern carved to the reverse
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Soft weathered wood with authentic patina and visible grain
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One-of-a-kind decorative folk sculpture
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Ideal as a statement piece, centrepiece, or collector’s object
Full Description
This naïve folk art wooden bust is a compelling, one-of-a-kind sculpture, hand-carved from a single piece of naturally aged timber. Depicting the head and shoulders of a mythical man, the form is both primitive and deliberate, celebrating the raw honesty and narrative spirit that defines true folk art.
The face is boldly rendered, with a pronounced square jaw, strong nose, and stylised features that feel both ancient and imaginative. An oriental-style hairline introduces an element of mystery, while a carved collar of stacked rings encircles the neck, lending rhythm and architectural structure to the piece.
Turn the sculpture to reveal a captivating surprise — the reverse of the head is adorned with carefully carved geometric gridlines, adding depth, texture, and visual intrigue. The pale wood has mellowed beautifully over time, developing a soft weathered finish, subtle tonal variations, and a tactile grain that enhances its rustic authenticity.
Dating to circa the 1950s, this sculpture embodies the storytelling nature of naïve and outsider art. It feels simultaneously ceremonial, decorative, and deeply personal — a piece that invites curiosity and interpretation. Whether displayed alone or within a curated collection, it makes a striking visual statement and an unforgettable conversation starter.
Dimensions
Height: 57 cm
Width: 41 cm
Depth: 29 cm
Materials
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Solid wood
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Hand-carved from a single block
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Natural aged timber with original surface
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No applied finishes — authentic patina throughout
Condition
As with all vintage and antique pieces, this sculpture has lived a life before arriving at Campbell Vintage. You will find signs of natural ageing, surface wear, subtle marks, and gentle fading, all of which contribute to its character and authenticity. Overall, the condition is good and entirely commensurate with its age, with no structural issues noted.
Origin / Period
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Period: Circa 1950s
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Style: Naïve Folk Art / Primitive Sculpture
Styling Suggestions
Display this wooden bust as a standalone sculptural statement on a pedestal, console table, or open shelving. It pairs beautifully with primitive antiques, ethnographic objects, brutalist furniture, and textured interiors. Ideal for collectors of folk art, curiosities, and narrative decorative pieces.
FAQ
Is this sculpture a unique piece?
Yes, this is a one-of-a-kind hand-carved folk art sculpture. No two pieces like this exist.
Is the wood treated or refinished?
No. The surface shows its original aged patina and has not been artificially refinished.
Would this suit a modern interior?
Absolutely. Its bold form and textural quality work exceptionally well in both contemporary and traditional interiors.
Unique Points
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One-off hand-carved folk art sculpture
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Carved from a single solid piece of wood
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Expressive mythical subject with strong narrative appeal
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Rare geometric carving to the reverse
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Authentic mid-century folk art character
All your questions answered below...
- Fully insured delivery
- Returns accepted
- Authenticity assured
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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.
Please contact us for a tailored shipping quote.
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.
Need a Delivery Quote?
For an accurate delivery quote or to confirm any additional charges, please contact us via:
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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.
You can email mark (@) campbellvintage.co.uk
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Office Address: 71 Campbell Road, Southsea, PO5 1RJ. By appointment only to this address. Need to be booked in advance.
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Our products come with a guarantee stating they are as described when purchased.
As all our products are either antiques or vintage and have a life before we got them, we do not offer traditional warranties due to the nature of the items and history.
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If you have any questions however small beforehand and to give yourself peace of mind, please make contact. As we are very happy to discuss anything in greater detail.
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.
We hope you will be happy with your purchase. If for any reason you are unhappy, you may return the item/items to us within 14 days. Please notify us within 14 days.
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