Lovers lamp base is hand carved in Tanzania by Makonde artisan, Pius out of 100% Tanzania ebony wood. The Makonde are an ethnic group in Southeast Tanzania and northern Mozambique. Makonde Art is best known in the ebony medium. All our ebony sculptures are hand carved by members of the Makonde tribe. They are internationally famous for their unique wood work; that is why this artwork is called Makonde.
The Makonde were the first to create abstracts that were later imitated by other artists worldwide, such as Picasso. Because of their geographical isolation, the Makonde were not influenced by the colonial period. They have remained nearly out of reach of changes that have taken place in the country since independence. Their relative isolation has resulted in their high degree of ethnic self-awareness. The Makonde have been practicing their artwork for over 500 years.
All the tools used by Makonde carvers is traditionally handmade by them. Modern power tools are not used.
What makes the ebony wood unique is that the core of the tree is charcoal black and the bark is light brown. Ebony is the hardest wood to carve and it is so dense that it sinks in water. Because each piece is individually crafted, variations in size, color and carvings will occur.
Lampshade is made out of Mudcloth and is lined. We make all of our shades. If you prefer a different shade please let us know. We can make the shade in Kuba Cloth or Mudcloth.
PRODUCT INFORMATION
Lamp base measures 30" L x 7" W x 4" D
Mudcloth shade measures 11" L x 14" W