Vintage 1987 Signed A.A. FAKEYE Yoruba Wood Carving – Esu Flutist Sculpture
## Overview
An authentic, masterfully crafted neo-traditional Yoruba wood sculpture hand-carved in 1987 by the celebrated Nigerian artist **Azeez Alao (A.A.) Fakeye**. This striking piece depicts an *Afon Fere* (flutist/hornblower), a traditional figure culturally tied to court musicians, royal messengers, and the Yoruba deity *Esu*.
The statue features magnificent visual elements unique to the Fakeye lineage, including exaggerated almond eyes, a heavy stylized brow, and a towering ceremonial headdress intricately carved with relief faces on multiple sides.
## Provenance & Marks
The underside of the base features deep, crisp hand-incised markings that fully document the sculpture's unique history:
* **"A.A. FAKEYE"** – Signature of master carver Azeez Alao Fakeye.
* **"'87"** – Dated to 1987.
* **"Mr. VVIANEN"** – Personalized dedication to the original expatriate patron or collector, adding excellent provenance and character to the piece.
## Condition & Materials
* **Material:** Single block of indigenous Nigerian hardwood.
* **Condition:** Excellent vintage condition. The wood exhibits a rich, warm, medium-brown patina. There are no structural breaks, missing pieces, or major splits. Natural, superficial drying lines are present on the base, which is typical for aged African hardwoods and confirms its authentic vintage origin.
## Dimensions & Weight
* **Height:** 35 cm (approx. 13.8 inches)
* **Width:** 10 cm (approx. 3.9 inches)
* **Depth:** 7 cm (approx. 2.7 inches)
* **Weight:** 785 grams
## Shipping & Care
This collectible piece will be wrapped with utmost care in heavy bubble wrap and shipped securely in a sturdy box to preserve its pristine patina. Keep displayed in a dry environment away from direct, harsh sunlight.
Specifications
ConditionExcellentColorsBrownMaterialWoodNumber of items1Height35 cmWidth7 cm