AFRICAN ANTIQUES, MODERN & CONTEMPORARY ART

House of Craven holds auctions featuring African antiques, such as: rare masks, flags, sculptures and textiles. House of Craven is also a market leader for Modern & Contemporary African Art. Our auctions offer paintings, sculptures, works on paper and ceramics by artists including: Aboudia, El Anatsui, Ben Enwonwu, Yusuf Grillo, Ladi Kwali, Maggie Laubser, Zanele Muholi, Ibrahim El-Salahi, Gerard Sekoto, Irma Stern, Papa Ibra Tall and Portia Zvavahera. 

Throughout the years, the impact of African ART on contemporary Western artists has been profound. Collecting antique ART from Africa is much more than a hobby. What differentiates African ART from western styles is the variety of materials, the tribal patterns and the exquisite craftsmanship. African ART tends to be figurative, emphasizing the human form through geometric abstraction. This style applies to ART, painting, sculpture, architecture and even fashion. Most of the African works are made of wood, bronze, watercolors, oil pastels, rocks, marble, fabric and clay. Many well-known artists have been inspired by the African culture and art, including Pablo Picasso (featured to the right), Giacometti and Matisse. For instance, Picasso created many woodworks, bronze sculptures and ceramic pieces, since he was deeply influenced by the beauty of the African masks. In African culture, people are inspired by nature and their gods and to create beautiful masks to honor their ancestors. 

For complimentary auction information on selling your works at auction, please request an Auction Estimate. 

By entrusting your works to House of Craven, you join a legacy of esteemed collectors and patrons who have relied on us to elevate their treasured pieces to a global stage. Our team of experts possesses deep knowledge in the nuances of African works, ensuring that your works receive the attention, recognition, and value they deserve.