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The munyai or marriage mediator has an important role in traditional Shona society. They liaise between the two families involved in a potential union, negotiating the terms agreed between them.
A traditional Zimbabwean marriage was both a financial arrangement and a strategic union. In fact, the alliance between the families was more important than the individuals involved and it involved payment of lobola (bridewealth) for the transfer of a young woman from one household to another.
This striking little sculpture dates from 1976, so it is a super example of an early work of the late great Nicholas Mukomberanwa. He has sculpted the lines of the stylized face with such confidence!
Nicholas’ work rarely comes onto the open market, as most pieces are treasured items held in private collections. In particular, small sculptures are very rare and hard to find, so this piece represents a super opportunity to add a lovely little ‘Nicholas’ to your Shona sculpture collection.
Guruve is offering Munyai for sale on behalf of a private collector who acquired it in 2014, from a gallery in Zimbabwe. The original gallery label is still visible on the side of the sculpture. A certificate of authenticity from the Harare gallery (and also one from Guruve) accompany the piece.
Payment can be in USD, or in GBP or EUR equivalent.
Imperial measurements are:
7 7/10″ x 5 1/10″ x 9 3/5″ and weight 15 1/2lbs
UK clients are welcome to collect from us in Hertfordshire, or arrange a viewing by appointment, or contact us to purchase.
We offer worldwide shipping via tracked courier in a fully lined made-to-measure crate.
Overseas clients please email us for a shipping quote;
remember to include your delivery address (including post/zip code) and contact phone number.
