Wood Objects

African wood objects possess a long and highly refined artistic tradition. Skilled woodcarvers inherit techniques passed down through generations and create objects requiring patience, precision, symmetry, and a strong three-dimensional understanding of form.

Using simple but essential tools such as the axe, adze, chisel, rasp, scraper, and knife, the carver transforms a single block of wood into a finished object. The adze is particularly important in defining the overall form, while scraping and polishing refine the final surface.

Knowledge of different wood types is fundamental. Hardwoods are often used for sculptures, masks, doors, heddle pulleys, and utensils, while softer woods may be chosen for drums and musical instruments.

Collectible African wood objects include masks, fetish figures, heddle pulleys, slingshots, doors, locks, stools, and ritual carvings from across the continent.