Ebonised wood bust of a man by J. Vargas, circa 1920

This bust of an African man, made circa 1920, bears the signature of J. Vargas incised on the reverse. Carved from solid ebonised wood, the sculpture has a gouge-worked surface, its hollows revealing the warm colour of the wood through the dark finish. The face, neck and hair are carved directly above an integral base. Measuring 20 centimetres in diameter and 45 centimetres in height, the piece is in very good condition, with signs of use.