Kenya, East Africa · Ben Apollo
Varies
Piece #CL001 · Year Made: 2002
$110
Shipping individually quoted
Origin
Kenya, East Africa
Period
21st Century
Medium
African Clay
Width
Not listed
Details & Materials
Medium: One of a Kind Hand Carved African Clay
Dimensions (in): Large: Height 8" x 5", Small: Height 5" x 3.5"
Region: Kenya, East Africa
Artist: Ben Apollo
Age: 19 years (2003)
Availability: In Stock, Available to Ship Immediately
Item Number: CL001
Collection: Clay Heads by Ben Apollo
Markings: Artist’s Signature
Provenance Report: "Clay Head"
Tear Sheet: "Clay Head"
Condition: Excellent; Not previously owned; Undamaged
Sourcing: Fair Trade
Certificate of Authenticity Provided
We are proud to represent one of the finest clay sculptors in the world: Ben Apollo. Ben Apollo is entirely self-taught, focusing his themes primarily on the Masaai tribe. His work demands astounding attention to detail, from the hundreds of beads on one necklace, to the fibers of hair on a head. "Clay Head" is available in two sizes and multiple colors. Each piece is hand signed by Ben Apollo himself. “Clay Head” makes a memorable gift for your loved one's home or office, as this piece is hand crafted by one of the finest clay artists in the world.
The Masaai Tribe is an indigenous group of semi-nomadic people in Kenya and northern Tanzania. Due to their distinctive customs and dress and residence near the many national game parks and reserves of East Africa, they are among the most well-known tribes—a near constant presence.
Each piece is made out of natural African clay and is free from any dyes, stains, or varnishes.
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Which Piece Will I Get?: "Clay Head" is available in two sizes: small and large. First, choose your size.
Because Ben Apollo made each piece unique, there are various styles and colors we have available in each size. Upon request, you can choose the specific piece you prefer from the photos (which photo number you are referring to. For example: "Orange clay, female") and put it in a message in your cart when you check out. Otherwise, we will choose a piece at random. Please note pricing is not determined by style or color, it is only determined by size (large or small.)
Shipping
At York’s Shona Gallery, we always put our clients first. We have the most rapid fulfillment services of all online art websites. The majority of items will ship within 6 hours of ordering from Monday-Saturday. Depending on the shipping method you choose and where you are located in the United States, you should receive your item within 5 days.
We also ship worldwide. Purchase the item of your choice and we will contact you shortly after with details on shipping and applicable taxes.
Back to Giftables
- Condition: Excellent, not previously owned, undamaged
- Sourcing: Fair Trade
- Certificate of Authenticity: Available Upon Request
- Provenance Report: Available Upon Request
Shipping
Buy now and leave the shipping to us. At checkout you pay for the piece plus a shipping deposit. We then plan the packing for your piece and email you the remaining shipping balance. This applies to both domestic and international orders. Every shipment is tracked, and most deliveries need a signature.
- Domestic: 5-8 business days
- International: 10-14 business days
- White-glove delivery available on request
Care & Placement
Dust with a soft, dry brush. Never wash it and never use a damp cloth, as unfired African clay draws water straight in.
Keep it well away from sinks, bathrooms and anywhere it might be splashed.
Freestanding, and happiest on a level surface where it will not be knocked.
Origin
Kenya
East Africa
"When I was first exposed to African art, I felt a deep connection to it. It is hard to explain. It resonates with me spiritually."
Michael, Founder
York's Shona Gallery was the first in New York City to bring African sculpture to American collectors. Every piece in our collection is acquired directly, ensuring authenticity and fair exchange with the artists and communities who create them.
About the Artist
Ben Apollo
Clay Sculpture
Ben Apollo is a self-taught sculptor specializing in the tribes of Kenya. Apollo’s work is extremely alive and fascinating. Apollo focuses most of his sculptures of the Masaai family and tribe. Although he was never able to receive a formal education, Apollo has been able to have a successful career in clay sculpture.
As a young boy, Apollo was able to sit and watch older sculptors make figures from wood and clay in his Kenya village. At a young age, he took a particular interest in clay sculptures and absorbed the styles and techniques of the other great sculptors from his district. It was the influence of these sculptors that inspired Apollo to develop his own clay style.
Ben Apollo is a dedicated sculptor working exclusively with clay material to form figures representing the Masaai tribe. His characteristically detailed work demands great attention to detail and a steady hand. Apollo is widely acknowledged as one of the finest clay sculptors in the world.
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