"Tree of Life," a sculpture carved from ebony (ironwood) in a single block, features a series of intertwined figures representing members of an extended family, including past and present generations, gently supporting each other. This expresses the idea that everything has been achieved collectively, built on the shoulders of those who came before. The Makonde are inspired by their myths and tribal stories. The Tree of Life symbolizes unity and cohesion; each individual is considered part of the whole and therefore dependent on others, with unity and solidarity prevailing over the individual.

The quality of the wood allows them to achieve a very high level of detail, with very defined and realistic features, one of the characteristics of Makonde art.

The sculpture is carved on its own base, with a large number of figures in everyday poses intertwined, interspersed with elements of nature and a hut. At the top, a male head stands out next to a female body, supposedly the ancestral couple.
This Makonde "tree of life," in addition to its high aesthetic value, may have a ceremonial purpose and be used in rituals or as objects of veneration.

Condition: Very good condition, minor scratches on the wood.

MAKONDE TREE OF LIFE
Tanzania, 20th century

Very good condition, with minor superficial scratches on the wood.

Produced in Tanzania in the mid-20th century by the Makonde ethnic group, this sculpture reflects myths, tribal stories, and the importance of family in their culture. The tree of life embodies unity, solidarity, and mutual dependence, fundamental values in Makonde society, and was used in both rituals and contexts of veneration.