Makonde ebony carving

Chip and polish a block of blackwood with chisel strokes to reveal a carved figure, following a silhouette guide and keeping grain direction.

Heritage note

Part of the living heritage of Tanzania, Mozambique. Animals are partners in this tradition; good care and local rules always come first.

Origins

A living tradition passed from person to person; it is not tied to a single dated origin. It belongs to the cultural world of Africa: Great Lakes and Indian Ocean.