Pass on the passion. Introduce the next generation to African art.
As the season of giving approaches, I have selected six unusual objects from my collection that might make thoughtful gifts for someone who appreciates art, history and the unexpected.
After more than thirty years in African art, I have come to appreciate that collecting is about more than acquiring beautiful objects. It is also about learning to look, discovering the stories behind a sculpture or mask, and sharing that interest with the next generation.
You don’t need to begin with a major sculpture or an important investment. Sometimes a small, carefully chosen object is enough to spark curiosity and perhaps begin a lifelong interest in African art.
Here are six pieces I have selected for this special season. Click on any photograph to discover more about the object.
A Pair of Traditional Congolese Wooden Whistles
Simple in form, but rich in history. These small wooden whistles offer an interesting glimpse into traditional objects from Central Africa. Several similar pairs are available; each purchase includes one pair chosen at random.
€150 per pair
Akan Bird Gold Weight
A miniature brass bird from the Akan cultural area of Ghana. These small weights were used in weighing gold dust and could also carry symbolic meanings. This example comes from the collection of my mother, Nadya Levi, an artist and collector.
€350
Eket Small Mask
A small wooden mask from southeastern Nigeria, with a distinctive sculptural form. Despite its modest size, it has a strong visual presence and offers an interesting introduction to the artistic traditions of the Eket people.
€800
Bamileke Monkey Comb
An unusual carved wooden comb from Cameroon, featuring an animal form and painted decoration, including the number 99. An example of how an everyday object can also become a small work of sculpture.
€650
Pende Ikhoho Protective Amulet
A small wooden object associated with the Pende artistic tradition of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Wooden examples are less frequently encountered than ivory ones, as wood is more vulnerable to deterioration over time.
€400
Bamileke Monkey Figure
A carved wooden monkey figure attributed to the Bamileke of the Cameroon Grassfields. A circular area with a central hole is visible on its upper back; its original purpose remains uncertain. I would be interested to hear what other collectors make of this feature.
€750
A little knowledge to go with the gift
As a little seasonal surprise, I will be including a complimentary copy of my illustrated ebook, How to Collect African Art with an Experienced Eye, with selected purchases from this collection. Recipients will be chosen at random.
The ebook can be passed on to the person receiving the gift. The offer includes the current edition only, without access to future updated electronic versions. It explains what I look for when selecting an object, how to think about patina and authenticity, and why quality matters more than quantity.
My hope is that it may help a new collector develop an eye of their own — perhaps with a little guidance from someone who has been collecting for years.
Explore the Giving Season collection
Discover all the objects selected for this seasonal promotion.
Because the pleasure of collecting is not only in what we acquire, but also in what we pass on.
Warm regards,
David Norden
African Antiques From Antwerp — One Eye, 30 Years of Selection
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Discover How to Collect African Art with an Experienced Eye
African Art Gifts for Collectors
For those interested in African art, African antiques and African art collecting, this selection brings together African masks, African figures and traditional African art from different cultural traditions. From Bamileke art and an Eket mask to Pende art, Akan gold weights and Congolese art, each object offers a glimpse into the history and craftsmanship of African tribal art. If you are looking for African art gifts, unique gifts or Christmas gifts for collectors, these carefully selected pieces offer an alternative to mass-produced presents. Whether you are an experienced African art collector or just beginning to explore How to Collect African Art, the Christmas gifts in this collection may be the starting point for a lasting interest in traditional African art.