Makonde Adam, Eve, and Snake Wood Carving MATTER COLLECTION

The Makonde people of Tanzania and Mozambique are among the most prolific woodcarvers in eastern Africa, known for their highly skilled and expressive sculpture traditions. For generations, Makonde artists have carved figures, masks, and narrative scenes from dense hardwoods, often reflecting both cultural traditions and outside influences.

This carving depicts Adam and Eve with the serpent, illustrating how Makonde artists incorporated biblical themes into their work following the introduction of Christianity to the region during the colonial period. While the subject comes from a biblical story, the carving style reflects the distinctive craftsmanship and sculptural tradition of the Makonde.

Makonde carvings are widely admired for their detail, storytelling, and the deep cultural heritage of the Makonde people.

Large crack/hole in the back of the piece. 

Discoloration is not damage; it is present within the wood grain.

Provenance: Matter Collection

From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.

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