Tanzania : Makonde sculpture origin of modern African wood sculpture
The Makonde are an ethnic group living along the Tanzania-Mozambique border. They are considered the most talented sculptors in Africa and their know-how has been passed down from generation to generation. Makonde sculpture is often considered the origin of modern African wood sculpture. With exaggerated human and animal figures, this sculpture reflects the essence of traditional African culture, is imbued with imagination, and is inspired by nature. The themes of the sculpture integrate scenes from the everyday life of the Makonde, their hopes, their spirituality, their mysticism, their religion and their myths. Oral histories, ceremonies, traditional healing, social and economic success and failure, and struggles for a better life can all become the subject of sculptures.
More on : http://www.chinafrique.com/F_Lifestyle/txt/2011-11/29/content_408849.htm
From: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Makonde_carving_1.jpg
