Soapstone Bust of Shona Woman

Description

Hand carved soapstone bust of a Shona tribeswoman. The Shona tribe are indigenous to Zimbabwe, formerly known as Rhodesia.

The simplicity of the carving is most appealing and the proportions are fabulous. The bust stands 16cm high and is carved from a single piece of beige/fawn coloured soapstone with natural flecks and veins in the stone.

I acquired this piece from the collection of a former British Ambassador who travelled the African continent extensively in the 1950’s and was an avid collector of tribal objects.

It’s in a good condition but care should always be taken with soapstone objects due to the softness of the stone. It enjoys polishing with a little olive oil.