John Debeti (1980) - Shona

Shona sculpture in serpentine – Zimbabwe – Abstract feminine figure – 20 kg – 42 cm Impressive and remarkable Shona sculpture in serpentine stone from Zimbabwe, depicting a stylized, generously curved, fluid and deeply carved feminine figure. This work fits into the tradition of Shona stone sculpture from Zimbabwe, an artistic movement that saw significant development from the 1950s-1960s and gradually gained international recognition. Artists work various local stones, notably several varieties of serpentine, to create figurative or abstract compositions characterized by organic forms and notable polishing work. This sculpture is a very fine example of this aesthetic. The figure is treated with powerful, rounded, interwoven volumes. Deep incisions define the arms, the body, and especially the long hair, particularly worked on the reverse side. The stone has a beautiful natural coloration mixing dark brown, black, bronze and ochre tones, with a visible mottling across the material. The polishing accentuates these natural variations and produces striking reflections when the sculpture is exposed to light. The work has been carved on all faces, allowing appreciation from different angles. Its substantial mass also contributes to its character: at only 42 cm in height and about 20 kg, it is a particularly dense and imposing sculpture. The base has a central bore, visible in the photographs, which may have been used to fix the piece on a plinth or for an earlier display system. The extremely stylized treatment of the figure, the fluid and rounded forms, the work on volumes and the polished finish can recall certain works associated with recognized Shona sculptors, notably John Debeti, whose works also explore stylized human and organic forms. John Debeti Origin: Zimbabwe Tradition: Shona sculpture Material: serpentine stone Technique: direct carving, sculpture and polishing Subject: stylized feminine figure Style: modern African art / abstract figurative Estimated period: second half of the 20th century Height: 42 cm Maximum width: 32 cm Weight: approximately 20 kg Colors: dark brown, black, bronze and ochre The sculpture shows a few small marks, fine scratches, and superficial traces, perfectly visible in the detailed photographs. They are compatible with its history and the nature of the stone and do not detract from its very handsome overall presence. A powerful Shona sculpture from Zimbabwe, remarkable for its exceptional weight, the density of its serpentine, its substantial carving and polishing work, and its particularly expressive organic forms. A piece with character, suitable for both an African art collection and a contemporary interior.

Estimate:£253.84

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