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This is an especially impressive example due to its large 11-inch diameter, substantial size, and unusually large number of carved animals. Closely comparable Kenyan bowls typically feature fewer animals.
The animals are individually carved from wood and include a wonderful assortment of African wildlife, including recognizable giraffe, zebra, rhinoceros, elephant, lion, and spotted big-cat forms. Each figure has its own character and visible hand-carved details.
The bowl itself is beautifully decorated inside and out. The interior features two stylized hand-decorated giraffes surrounded by flowing geometric designs, while additional reddish-brown patterns decorate the underside. The coloration appears to have been created using wood dyes or stains rather than conventional opaque paint, allowing the natural grain of the wood to remain visible. Comparable Kenyan safari bowls are traditionally described as being hand-decorated with natural colored dyes and finished with wax.
The craftsmanship and slight variations among the figures give the piece wonderful handmade folk-art character.
Approximate Measurements:
- Diameter: 11"
- Height: 5"
- Weight: approximately 1.5 lbs.
This piece displays beautifully but does show age and use. There is general surface wear, discoloration/staining, and areas with a somewhat hazy or residue-like surface film. The bowl may simply benefit from careful cleaning and conditioning, but I have intentionally left it as found and have not attempted to clean or restore the wood or decoration.
There are also one or two fine drying cracks in the wooden bowl that were only noticed upon close inspection. They do not appear to significantly affect the structure or display.
All eight carved animals are currently secure, and I did not find any obvious chips, breaks, or missing portions on the figures. The animals appear to have been individually attached to the rim. Because the age and long-term strength of the adhesive cannot be determined, it is possible that one could eventually require reattachment, particularly during shipping or future handling. The piece will therefore be exceptionally carefully wrapped and boxed for shipment.
Sold as is due to its handmade construction, surface condition, age-related wear, and unknown history.
Despite these imperfections, this is a striking and substantial piece of African folk art that displays beautifully. With some knowledgeable, gentle care, it may clean up considerably, but it also has considerable character exactly as it is.
Ships the same day or next day, including Saturdays, and will be carefully packaged in a sturdy box for safe arrival.
Thank you for looking at the listing, and please feel free to reach out with any questions.
