Size: 6 x 4 ft.
Origin: Africa
Circa: 1970s
Material: Cotton
This vintage African canvas painting is a captivating piece of folk art, rendered in earthy tones of ochre, brown, and black on a natural cloth background. The composition depicts a traditional village scene, featuring four stylised human figures engaged in daily life: one seated on the ground gesturing toward scattered cowrie shells, possibly performing a divination ritual, while others observe or stand nearby.
A thatched-roof hut anchors the background, alongside a large tree and a group of birds in mid-flight, adding movement and life to the scene. A mask-like figure with exaggerated features, seated in a meditative posture, suggests spiritual or ancestral presence, an element often found in African storytelling and ritual art.
Bold black outlines and simplified forms give the work a strong graphic quality, while the hand-painted border of repeated geometric motifs frames the narrative with rhythm and balance. This canvas likely originates from West Africa, where such artworks are used to convey cultural memory, communal identity, and everyday life. Rich in symbolism and charm, it serves as a vivid window into traditional African village life and belief systems.
Authentic vintage African hand paintings are drawn on handwoven cotton. Each one is an exceptional work of art and unique.
Pictures are taken in natural light to portray the most realistic colours possible.
Our paintings are professionally restored, ensuring they will last for many more years.
