What is Meaning of The Tree of Life Sculpture?
You may have heard of the Tree of Life Sculpture but do you really its meaning?
The Makonde people are well known for their one-of-a-kind art pieces but their most admired piece is the Makonde Ujamaa Tree of Life.
These beautiful sculptures originated from the artistic style known as Dimoongo, one of the eight major styles of art present in Makonde culture. The Tree of Life has been present in the cultures of Tanzania and Mozambique since the late 1950’s and has taken on different names over time, such as Dimoongo and Ujamaa.
What the Tree of Life represent?
The Ujamaa Tree of Life holds deep meaning for the people of Makonde. The word “ujamma” translates to community and family, which is the main message of these sculptures. The Tree of Life represents a sense of community and harmony that is highly valued amongst the Makonde people.
Caring for Ebony wood: Once you have this beautiful piece of African art in your home, follow these steps to ensure that your piece lasts for generations to come.
- Apply a high-quality lemon oil, that has little-to-no alcohol or petroleum as its base, to a soft cloth.
- Use the cloth to cover the surface of the sculpture with the oil and allow it to sit.
- After 10 minutes, use a new cloth to wipe any residue from the surface.
- Be sure to avoid using paper towels on this type of wood, materials left behind from paper towels can damage the piece. Also, it is advised that you test your cleaning product on a small area of your sculpture before applying to the entire piece.
Whether you are purchasing a Tree of Life for your own home or gifting it to a loved one, this piece of art will serve as a reminder of the importance of African community, family, and unity.
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