The rising prominence of African art in the global market has led to increased interest in identifying authentic pieces. For decades, the consensus defined an authentic African artwork as one crafted by a "traditional" artist for a "traditional" purpose, used as intended. But is this understanding anything more than a spurious and imposed notion?
Such a definition of real African art emerged from the demands and desires of anthropologists, dealers, auction houses, collectors, art historians, and museums. Many of the traits they seek, including originality and age, are of subsidiary relevance to the objects’ primary audiences. The authentic piece is imagined to sustain residual ties to its users and makers, because it was once danced or kept in a shrine.
Conferring authenticity on African art has long been a uniquely Euro-American preoccupation. Once an object that was spiritually or practically useful leaves its milieu, it enters other alien realms, including the market. An object that is viable as a commodity to sell, is accompanied by a parallel, entrepreneurial urge to fool through fakery.
To truly identify authentic African carvings, several factors must be considered. These range from the physical characteristics of the sculpture to its cultural and historical context.
Key Factors in Identifying Authentic African Carvings
First and foremost, the outer aspect of a sculpture should be studied. A number of factors can indicate a particular region of Africa, or even a specific society: the techniques used to work metal (in some cases) and wood (usually), and the species of the latter when it can be ascertained; whether the object is painted or oiled; whether it is patinated, or has sharp angles.
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Careful observation is therefore necessary; was this piece intended to be naturalistic, or not? Are there any distinctive geometric lines? For each cultural region, specific groups can be identified by distinctive styles. Research and attribution can also be guided by how the body is modeled.
Here are some key areas to examine:
1. Provenance
Although the provenance of an African sculpture is considered an important criterion, it is only one aspect of the value of a work. Establishing a clear history of ownership and verifying authenticity is crucial.
To determine if your African artwork holds hidden value, start with provenance research.
Pedigree: Look at the piece.
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The ethnical provenance: Verify the origin of the carving.
2. Materials and Techniques
The materials used and the techniques employed in creating the sculpture can provide valuable clues about its origin and authenticity.
- Wood Type: Identify the species of wood used, as certain types are specific to particular regions.
- Metal Work: Examine the techniques used to work metal, if applicable.
- Paint and Oils: Check if the object is painted or oiled, and identify the type of paint or oil used.
3. Style and Design
Each cultural region in Africa has its own distinctive artistic styles and design motifs. Understanding these can help in identifying the origin and authenticity of a carving.
Geometric Lines: Determine if there are any distinctive geometric lines.
Naturalistic vs. Abstract: Ascertain whether the piece was intended to be naturalistic or abstract.
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4. Condition and Age
The condition of the sculpture and signs of aging can also provide clues about its authenticity. However, it's important to note that artificial aging techniques are sometimes used to deceive buyers.
Once they have fulfilled their ritual purpose, they usually acquire a patina, may become damaged, and are sometimes repaired. Ancient African sculptures should therefore be considered according to the aforementioned criteria.
Look at the piece for holes.
Be wary of pieces with a shiny aspect.
Artificially Aged Pieces: These last batches appear to be artificially "aged".
Unless it was left to rotten in the ground for some time to looks old it didn't seems to be made for sale.
5. Cultural Context and Symbolism
Classical African art is all about symbolism. Understanding the cultural context and symbolism of a sculpture is crucial for determining its authenticity and significance.
Although each African ethnic group has its own cults and rituals, the practice of handling objects is common to all. African art objects, therefore, bear traces of this.
A work should be carefully observed and, if possible, the rituals and practices of the African society identified as its birthplace should be studied.
From Rituals to Art: The Evolution of African Masks
6. Size and Scale
Size does matter, most pieces are 40/50 cm.
7. Market Trends and Pricing
Auction prices and results matter, so do exhibitions.
Price Differences: Be aware of unusual price variations.
8. The Seller
And last but not least the seller. Be cautious of unknown sellers.
The Role of Experts and Appraisals
Engage professional art appraisal services specializing in African art. If you suspect your artwork might be valuable, seeking a professional appraisal is not merely beneficial but essential. Consultants, Art Auctions, and other professional art services can provide valuable insights.
Rising Value of African Art
In recent years, African art has rapidly ascended the global art market hierarchy, gaining remarkable traction among international collectors, galleries, and auction houses. This surge in value is not just a fleeting market trend but a significant cultural shift reflecting deeper recognition of Africa’s rich, diverse, and historically undervalued artistic contributions.
African art’s ascent in value is closely linked to increased recognition and correction of historical market biases. For decades, African art was largely excluded from mainstream global art discussions. Today, there’s a conscious shift, partly due to a growing awareness and appreciation of Africa’s diverse contemporary and modern art movements.
The growing value of African art represents a vital shift towards global inclusivity and recognition of Africa’s rich cultural heritage.
Examples of Authentication
An inherited painting believed to be a simple family heirloom was later authenticated as a work by Ben Enwonwu, one of Africa’s most celebrated modern artists.
El Anatsui’s intricate metal tapestries were initially underappreciated outside Africa.
Curious how authentication and appraisal differ in these cases?
Caution and Humility
Caution and humility should therefore be exercised when observing classical African art. However deeply ingrained, the criteria of Western aesthetics should be set aside in favor of those of African societies and a consideration of the purpose of their artworks.
