One of Kenya's most loved crafts is wood carving. These carvings can be made from wood, which is readily available in Kenya. While some Kenya wood carvings can be used as decorations, others are useful for utility purposes.
History of Kenyan Wood Carvings
Kenya has a rich history in wood carving. Kenyan wood carvers have been crafting intricate and beautiful works of art for centuries. The 12th century is the earliest date for a Kenyan woodcarving. The British Museum now houses this carving. It depicts a man in traditional clothing and a woman.
European settlers began to love Kenyan wood carvings during the colonial period. Many European settlers hired Kenyan wood carvers for furniture and decorative items. Kenyan wood carving continues to thrive today. Kenyan wood carvers continue creating beautiful, unique pieces of art that are treasured by both locals as well as foreigners.
Materials used to make Kenyan Wood Carvings
Kenya wood carvings are made of a variety woods with unique properties. Acacia wood is the most commonly used wood in Kenyan woodcarving. Acacia wood is renowned for its strength and durability, making it a great material for intricate carvings. Olivewood, mahogany and ebony are other popular woods used in Kenyan carving.
Every type of wood is unique in its grain pattern and color. This allows Kenyan carvers create stunning pieces of art. Kenyan carvers often combine different woods to create unique pieces. Kenyan woodcarvings are made from the finest materials. To create beautiful, long-lasting works of art, only the best woods are used.
The Forms of Kenyan Wood Carvings
Kenyan wood carvings can be described as some of the most beautiful and unique in the world. The form of Kenyan wood carvings varies depending on where they are from.
Tribal masks are the most popular form of Kenyan woodcarving. These masks are used in rituals and ceremonies to honor ancestors and other spirits. These masks are often very elaborate and feature bright colors and intricate designs.
The sculpture is another common Kenya wood carvings. They can be carved into any shape you like, but they are most often used to carve animals and people. These are often large and impressive and are often regarded as functional objects rather than art.
You can also find Kenyan wood carvings in jewelry. These include rings, bracelets and necklaces. These pieces are often carved with symbols and designs that have a special meaning for the wearer.
What is the cost of wood carvings in Kenya?
Kenyan wood carvings can be found all over the globe. They are beautiful and unique pieces of art. These carvings are priced differently depending on their size, wood type, and complexity.
A small Kenya wood carvings costs between $30 and $50. A medium-sized carving costs between $100 and $500. Larger carvings can run up to $1,000.
It is important to remember that the cost of a Kenyan wood carving is not necessarily indicative of its quality. You should feel at ease with the piece you choose. There are many factors that influence the price of carvings.
Where can one find a gallery selling Kenya wood carvings?
You can search the internet for galleries that sell Kenya wood carvings. You will get many results, both online and brick-and mortar.
You can also check out local art galleries. These galleries often sell work from many artists, including Kenyans.
There are many festivals and fairs throughout the year that showcase Kenyan woodcarvings. These events are a great way for you to meet the artists and see a variety of carvings.
Conclusion
The wood carvings of Kenya are unique. Understanding them can help you appreciate Kenyan culture. This article will give you an insight into the meaning of these carvings and their importance to Kenyans. You can visit Kenya wood carvings if you are ever in Kenya.