Elephant (repaired)

This African art form is known as Shona sculpture because it is carved by the Shona of Zimbabwe.  In Shona folklore, the elephant or 'Nzou' symbolizes patience and long life.  Elephants are esteemed by the Shona for their great devotion, loyalty and dedication for one another - all  fundamental values in the Shona culture.  Family bonds, respect for eachother,  support, and love are central to the Shona beliefs and the elephant, symbolizes this to them. 

 

The stone is serpentine and can be found in Zimbabwe with  colors ranging from black and green to yellows, orange, grey, red, and even purple.  Each piece is unique, both in the expression made by the sculptor's hands and in the natural patterns in the rock formed millions of years ago.  

Medium:  Serpentine Stone

 

Height:  11 1/2 inches

 

***Please note:  This Shona sculpture was slightly damaged during shipping.  Only noticable from the back, part of the elephants right ear (looking at the back photo) had to be repaired.  If you look at the photo of the back of the sculpture, on the upper right ear, there is a slightly curved white line where the elephants ear had to be repaired.  Due to the repair of this sculpture, we are offering it for a significant discount.  Please email with additional questions.  Thank you.