This is a vintage Makonde African, carved wood, tree of life lamp. A rare example of folk art and a fabulous table light with a giraffe print shade.
This is a stunning piece and the detail in the carving will fascinate and amaze you, your family and your friends.
A bit of background-
The Makonde people lived in comparative isolation in the savannah highlands prior to the 1970s. They are an ethnic group in southeast Tanzania and northern Mozambique. They traditionally create African wood carvings, household objects, figures and masks and Makonde art has become part of the most important art of Africa today.
Artists use their tribal myths and fables as a source of inspiration for their breathtaking work.
This wood carving is a Makonde ‘Tree of Life’ or Ujamaa. It depicts human figures of all ages climbing and holding onto each other showing the nature of support across generations. These carvings are made from one single piece of wood and can be up to two metres high. Although often referred to as carved Ebony it is in fact the mpingo or African Blackwood tree.
The technical bit-
This lamp has been sympathetically cleaned, lightly waxed and brush buffed to retain all it’s detailed carving. rewired and fitted with a new mount, small Edison screw bulb holder and inline switch ready for a new lease of life. To complete the look a handmade shade has been created using a contemporary faux giraffe print material
Measurements 5.5” Diameter base x 14.5” to top of carving x 21” high overall
13.5cm Diameter base x 37cm to top of bulb holder and 53cm high overall
The shade measures 25cm diameter x 21cm in height
To see more of our lamps and other items visit our shop LadybirdLaneDecor.com