34.95 USD
VINTAGE AFRICAN HAND-CARVED OLIVEWOOD DIVIDED SERVING DISH - FISH-SHAPED
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Specific country is unknown, but it is African (most likely Southern Africa)
HISTORY: Olive trees are nature's sculptures, growing more beautiful as time goes on. Often living thousands of years, the trees are native to southern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Olive trees are not only prized for their olives (mostly to make olive oil), but also for their wood. Olivewood has cultural and religious significance across various cultures and religions. The wood is hard and strong, yet can be carved easily. Its uniqueness lies in the wood grain; each piece's grain pattern is individual to that piece. Like wine, olivewood improves with age, growing richer and darker as time passes.
DESCRIPTION: This fish-shaped serving dish was hand-carved from African olivewood. The fins are etched, and the face is carved in stunning detail with a partially open mouth and an inset eye. (See first picture above.) The body of the fish is carved out and divided into two sections, showing the beauty of the wood grain. (See last picture above.)
DIMENSIONS: 14 inches long, 9 inches wide, 1 1/4 inches tall
CONDITION: This dish is in very good condition. There are no nicks or chips anywhere on the piece. The wood shows the wonderful darkening of age, as well.
PROVENANCE: Obtained from a Charleston, SC private collection
USE: This dish would be lovely on any table as a relish tray or serving condiments. The dish can be washed but should be dried thoroughly. To keep the wood in good condition, periodically apply a thin coat of olive oil to front and back (using a cloth or soft brush) and let the oil soak in over night. Then clean off any oily residue with a soft cloth and put away.
SHIPPING:
-- For United States: USPS Priority Mail, which includes $100 insurance.
-- For Canada, USPS First Class Mail with insurance
For another vintage handmade item, please see my listing for a hand-hammered copper dallah (Arabic coffee pot): https://www.etsy.com/listing/245214254/vintage-12-inch-hand-hammered-copper-and?ref=shop_home_active_4
For more antique/vintage houseware treasures in my shop, please see https://www.etsy.com/shop/AnchorLineVintage?section_id=16546376&ref=shopsection_leftnav_6