Early Nigerian Ebony Bust – Hand-Carved Yoruba Female Portrait

This early 20th-century carved bust represents a female figure from the Yoruba people of Nigeria, expertly sculpted from a single block of dense West African ebony. The bust displays characteristic features of Yoruba portraiture: elaborate coiffure with a high crest, incised facial scarification, and a richly detailed collar necklace, all rendered with expressive detail and cultural symbolism.

The Yoruba are known for their long-standing tradition of wooden sculpture that honors ancestors, ideals of beauty, and feminine strength. This figure reflects that heritage, with serene facial expression and upright posture conveying dignity and grace. The aged ebony surface reveals a lustrous patina and dark swirling grain, further emphasizing the quality of both the wood and the carving.

An exceptional display piece for collectors of African tribal art, ethnographic sculpture, or historical woodwork. The soup can shown in photos is for scale only and not included.

Condition
In good condition with no damage. Surface shows natural wear, age polish, and minor hairline grain separation consistent with hand-carved ebony of this age. No repairs.

Dimensions
19 x 5 x 4.5 inches
Weight: 7 lbs 8 oz