Date: Mid 20th century
Geography: Kenya, Africa
Dimensions:
1. 18cm H 3.5cm W x 4cm D 101g
2. 15cm H 3.4cm W x 5.5cm D 79g
3. 15cm H 4cm W x 6cm D 138g
4. 16cm H 4cm W x 5cm D 81 g
5. 15cm H 4cm W x 4cm D 77 g
6. 18cm H 5cm W x 4cm D 100 g
Weight full set : 576g
Material: Ebony wood
Condition: very good see photos
This collection consists of six hand intricrately carved Besmo Maasai figures made from ebony wood. The statues range in height from 15.5 cm to 18 cm and weigh between 79 grams and 140 grams each. All six pieces were carved from the same ebony tree log, making them a matching set.
The natural colour variations seen across the figures are typical of ebony wood. Parts carved from the centre of the log are darker in colour, while pieces taken closer to the outer section of the tree are lighter. These differences are natural and add character to the collection.
The Besmo carving group is known for producing hand-carved wooden sculptures in East Africa, particularly in Kenya. Their work often focuses on figures that represent daily life, cultural traditions, and community activities. Using locally sourced woods such as ebony, Besmo carvers create each piece by hand, using traditional carving methods. While individual styles may vary between carvers, their sculptures are generally recognised for their simple forms, attention to detail, and the natural beauty of the wood. The group has helped support and preserve woodcarving skills that have been passed down through generations.
Each figure represents a different person and activity associated with everyday life. One female figure is shown carrying a bowl on her head, a common method of transporting goods and food. A male figure is depicted playing a drum, reflecting the importance of music and rhythm in many African communities. Another male figure is seated and holds a bottle in one hand.
The lightest-coloured figure in the collection is a female holding an object. Another female figure carries a bundle of cut wood balanced on her head, representing the gathering and transport of firewood. The tallest figure in the set is a standing male with his hands by his sides in a simple upright pose.
Each statue has been individually carved by hand, giving it its own subtle variations and details. Together, the six figures form an attractive display that highlights traditional carving skills and provides a varied representation of Maasai inspired subjects..
Date: Mid 20th century
Geography: Kenya, Africa
Dimensions:
1. 18cm H 3.5cm W x 4cm D 101g
2. 15cm H 3.4cm W x 5.5cm D 79g
3. 15cm H 4cm W x 6cm D 138g
4. 16cm H 4cm W x 5cm D 81 g
5. 15cm H 4cm W x 4cm D 77 g
6. 18cm H 5cm W x 4cm D 100 g
Weight full set : 576g
Material: Ebony wood
Condition: very good see photos
This collection consists of six hand intricrately carved Besmo Maasai figures made from ebony wood. The statues range in height from 15.5 cm to 18 cm and weigh between 79 grams and 140 grams each. All six pieces were carved from the same ebony tree log, making them a matching set.
The natural colour variations seen across the figures are typical of ebony wood. Parts carved from the centre of the log are darker in colour, while pieces taken closer to the outer section of the tree are lighter. These differences are natural and add character to the collection.
The Besmo carving group is known for producing hand-carved wooden sculptures in East Africa, particularly in Kenya. Their work often focuses on figures that represent daily life, cultural traditions, and community activities. Using locally sourced woods such as ebony, Besmo carvers create each piece by hand, using traditional carving methods. While individual styles may vary between carvers, their sculptures are generally recognised for their simple forms, attention to detail, and the natural beauty of the wood. The group has helped support and preserve woodcarving skills that have been passed down through generations.
Each figure represents a different person and activity associated with everyday life. One female figure is shown carrying a bowl on her head, a common method of transporting goods and food. A male figure is depicted playing a drum, reflecting the importance of music and rhythm in many African communities. Another male figure is seated and holds a bottle in one hand.
The lightest-coloured figure in the collection is a female holding an object. Another female figure carries a bundle of cut wood balanced on her head, representing the gathering and transport of firewood. The tallest figure in the set is a standing male with his hands by his sides in a simple upright pose.
Each statue has been individually carved by hand, giving it its own subtle variations and details. Together, the six figures form an attractive display that highlights traditional carving skills and provides a varied representation of Maasai inspired subjects..
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