Antique Wood African Man Sitting

I've had this wood sculpture a few years.Maybe someone can tell me what type this is.Appears to be made out of a tree old wood.Original cloth ,old.

 

just a carving of a man ...with broken feet...?
maybe missing something else....

 

No feet are not broken.That's the way it's carved.

 

Not exactly re: the feet...however, here he is with his hat intact. Unfortunately he was sold so there was scant information about him. "African, Tribal, Totem, etc".

 

East Africa (Tanzania/Kenya), tourist carving and yes, he should have feet.

https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/73683565_east-african-carved-wood-statue

 

Really?
That's what yer goin with??
I suggest you stay away from wood carvings then.....

 

I could add that calling this a "tourist carving" might be overly generous. Not all tourist carving is bad. Most hand-crafted items available on the market are made for sale, to collectors or tourists. And some is very well-done, and based on traditional forms.

This, however, could fit into the "airport art" category, a step below tourist. It usually features a stereotyped figure, quickly carved, possibly imported from somewhere else, that is a last-minute, cheap option for someone who wants to grab something quick because they forgot to get a souvenir to give to someone back home to confirm the fact that they had been somewhere "exotic".

 

Agree. It also provides an income.

Just a general statement:
I am all for buying good quality souvenirs. Choosing good quality not only pleases the eye, but also helps maintain a good standard of artistry and creativity. That way true artists are supported and a tradition can continue or evolve in a dignified way.
Buying junk 'junkifies' a culture.