Why this Rocks

This Proud Bird in Dolomite & Springstone by artist Stephen Chikeya comes from Chitungniza, Zimbabwe.

Shona Sculpture gets its name from the ‘Shona’ tribe of people, who are the largest tribe in Zimbabwe.

The sparkly Dolomite is a stone of patience, constancy and loyalty to one’s path.

It opens the heart and reminds one to appreciate the small things and mundane experiences.

Shona Sculpture History:

In 1957, Frank McEwen was appointed as the first curator of the new National Gallery in Salisbury, Rhodesia (now Harare, Zimbabwe). He had previously been curator at the Musée Rodin, Paris and had links with various artists of the time, including Picasso (who was himself heavily influenced by African art) and Matisse.

McEwen was impressed with the talent of some of the artists he met in Zimbabwe, and he encouraged to sculpt. Because of his contacts in the international art world, he was able to give the movement that later became known as ‘Shona sculpture’ (after Zimbabwe’s most numerous tribe) its first international exposure. McEwen encouraged the artists to look inward, to find their so-called ‘tribal subconsciousness’ and express it through their art. Much of the early work was inspired by Shona mythology.

Dimensions:

The sculpture measures approx. 13 1/2” H x 7 1/2” W x 6″ D.

More Information

Due to the fragile nature of this sculpture, this item is not eligible for free shipping.

We’re happy to provide delivery within 30 miles of the Gallery, but for other shipping destinations please contact us for a quote.

For more information about this treasure please email: ProductInfo@nature-gallery.com

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