East Africa, possibly Kenya, ca. second half of 20th century CE, signed "G. Rungu" near tip. A fabulous decorative piece that is hand-carved from caramel-hued hardwood to resemble an elephant tusk. The sturdy piece has a flat base and a curved body that tapers until terminating in a smooth tip. The horizontally carved scene depicts 5 adult African elephants as they stride about looking for their next mouthful as well as a single, smaller juvenile elephant that walks in front of one of the larger pack members. Tall trees frame each side of the artistry, and the majestic creatures are embellished with applied red pigment. Smooth patina has formed across the entire carving, and near the tip is a carved signature of an unknown artist reading, "G. Rungu." Size (along exterior curve): 22" L x 2.875" W (55.9 cm x 7.3 cm)
Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance),
we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.
Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#169076
Condition
Minor nicks and abrasions to some areas, otherwise intact and very good. Great patina and surface smoothness throughout.