Shona Queen by Eliot Katombo, Butter Jade, Unique, 64cm high by 42cm wide by 26cm deep, Female, Figurative, Tribal sculpture

Shona Queen by Eliot Katombo is a unique Shona sculpture carved from Butter Jade, measuring 64 cm high, 42 cm wide, and 26 cm deep. The piece presents a bust of an African woman, her head turned gracefully to the side. Her face remains neutral, calm, and dignified, drawing attention to her serene expression and elegant posture.

The focus centers on her head and upper chest, as the bust cuts off at the shoulders and just above the chest. Large necklaces and earrings adorn her, adding a sense of richness and status. Her hair is braided and styled high atop her head, emphasizing both texture and height. Despite the detailed adornments, the piece retains the characteristic Shona style, balancing realism with stylized abstraction.

Katombo smooths and polishes the sculpture meticulously, allowing the natural streaks of Butter Jade to shine. Pale whites, soft yellows, and gentle greens flow across the surface, while deeper blue flecks punctuate the form. These marbled colors enhance the sculpture’s depth and movement, making the bust visually engaging from multiple angles.

The combination of polished surfaces and intricate detail gives the work a sense of elegance and presence. Shona Queen celebrates strength, beauty, and cultural identity through form, adornment, and material. Its stylized yet detailed features and the vibrant, natural colouring of Butter Jade create a commanding and graceful representation of dignity and poise.