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Ebony statuette, "Working Woman"

Product ID: 35812

A sculpted tribute to the African woman and her struggles, this work by George Obeng hypnotizes with its details, emerging subtly from the coffee tone... more

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A sculpted tribute to the African woman and her struggles, this work by George Obeng hypnotizes with its details, emerging subtly from the coffee tone of ebony wood. The impact of the statuette touches the heart powerfully, her frail features proudly carrying a basket on her head and baby on her back as she leads her older child along the path of her daily rituals. Her frame is only a carriage, as she resiliently performs her duties of lessening the burdens of fellow human beings. Offer sensitivity to any setting with this piece.

Obeng voices his social and human concerns through his art, as it serves as a vehicle to express his profound concern for injustice and poverty. His work has been exhibited across the world, testifying to the universal resonance of his themes.

Because of the nature of ebony wood there often exist marked tonal variations, such as the tan discoloration at the base, adding to the attraction of the carving. A wax finish further highlights the grain's beauty.

  • 1.00 kgs
  • 2.2 lbs
  • 37 cm H x 7 cm W x 9 cm D
  • 14.5" H x 2.8" W x 3.5" D

  • Ebony wood
  • Made in Ghana
  • Certified and shipped by our office in Ghanaicon info
  • Product ID: 35812
George Obeng
George Obeng

West Africa

Wood sculptures

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Customer Reviews

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Artist rating

Total reviews

40

Denise

Verified Reviewer

Feb 01, 2020

A bit disapointed”

I would have thought that the detail on an item of this value would have been there. The items in the basket by just scoring diagonally not individually carved as pictured.The walking child faces outward at the side of the mother not facing forward in motion with her as pictured which impacts how the piece is presented. One of the mothers ears is made by a relatively deep hole. It feels as though this piece was rushed.

Purchased Item Working Woman, Ebony statuette

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Mosan

From Pennsylvania

Verified Reviewer

Sep 24, 2019

Elegant depiction of a working woman”

This statue is beautifully detailed. Graceful lines and textures are evident. Unique design with the child and baby along with the woman.

Purchased Item Working Woman, Ebony statuette

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James

Verified Reviewer

Jul 03, 2023

Wood Carving of A Girl”

Wonderful wood carving with stronge details and realistic outcomes.

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NOVICA Recognized Master

Your Purchase Makes a Difference!

Profound Impact

Profound Impact

Through NOVICA sales, George has been able to pay for his children's education and watch them grow up to become successful in their careers. Although he no longer needs to support his children, he still provides for his granddaughter and his wife. Every order makes an impact on Georges' life because it helps him care for his sweetheart as she recovers from her stroke.

Preserving Traditions

Preserving Traditions

George creates all of his works with the mission to preserve, promote, and develop. His desire to preserve can be seen through the locally sourced wood he uses and his apprenticeships where he teaches traditional techniques and assist carvers in learning new skills. He promotes and develops his designs through his incorporation of ancient symbols and storytelling into more modern carvings. He hopes his success and designs encourage future generations to practice carving and learn about their ancestors.

Moving On Up

Moving On Up

George was one of NOVICA's first artists in West Africa. Although a sustainable income is important to George, his main goal is to share his gift with the world. He sees the sales as a form of appreciation to this gift. In George's view, the appreciation from his art has been growing every year as he sells more and more of his African wood carvings.

Confronting Adversity

Confronting Adversity

In 1981, George's wife had two ectopic pregnancies. They survived financially with the help of George's income from NOVICA and were able to recover as a couple and a family. In 2018, George's wife suffered from a stroke and now the couple is using his NOVICA income to cover her medical bills as she recovers.

Job Creator

Job Creator

George has trained several people who are now able to support themselves and their families. George also hired two of his former apprentices to be his associates to enable him keep up with the volume of his orders.

Microcredit Financing

Microcredit Financing

George Obeng has received 3 microcredit loans with 0% interest from Kiva and Novica, the first for $1000 and the most recent for $1000. Proceeds were used to purchase new tools and equipment for his workshop.

Elder Master

Elder Master

This artist is an elder master and continues to actively practice their craft.

Media Featured

Media Featured

George's work was featured in the newspaper Spectator on April 12, 1986.

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