La Exoteca - Your etnical art gallery

Lapis Lazuli Box: Afghan Craftsmanship

The lapis lazuli box, originating from Afghanistan, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship known for its beauty. This small object, which combines functionality and art, is the result of a meticulous crafting process that reflects the rich heritage of the region.

Wooden Model, Batak House: A Reflection of Sumatran Culture

The wooden model representing a Batak house is a magnificent example of the rich cultural heritage of the Batak tribe, native to Sumatra, Indonesia. These houses, known as "Rumah Bolon," are recognized for their distinctive architecture, characterized by high pointed roofs that symbolize the tribe's connection to their ancestors and surroundings. The model, dated to the mid-20th century, is a testament to the craftsmanship and deep respect for tradition that still endures among the Batak people.

Wood Carving of a Woman from the Bastar Tribe

The wood carving of a woman from the Bastar tribe is a masterpiece of indigenous craftsmanship from India, highlighting the rich culture and traditions of the Chhattisgarh region. This carefully crafted sculpture not only showcases the skill of the artisans but also depicts the vital role that women play in the social and spiritual life of the Bastar community.

Female Senufo Figure: Representation of Fertility and Beauty

This impressive wooden and polychrome carved figure, originating from the Senufo tribe of Ivory Coast, depicts a nude woman standing upright on a base. With its vibrant red, blue, and yellow colors, this sculpture is not only a visual attraction but also a rich manifestation of the culture and traditions of the Senufo people.

Female Senufo Wooden Figure: A Cultural Treasure from Ivory Coast

The wooden female figure we present comes from the Senufo tribe, a prominent ethnic group in the northern region of Ivory Coast and southern Mali. This tribe is known for its rich artistic tradition and skill in wood carving, which has been passed down through generations. The Senufo deeply value art as a way to express their cultural and spiritual identity.

This figure is more than just a sculpture; it is a reflection of the tribe's rich cultural and spiritual heritage. Every detail of the piece tells a story of tradition, respect, and connection to the divine, making it an invaluable treasure for those who appreciate African art and cultural diversity. This artwork is a testimony to the ancestral art of the Senufo and their enduring legacy in the history of Ivory Coast.

Double Figure of the Baoulé Tribe: Man and Woman Carved in Wood

This exceptional double figure, carved in wood by the Baoulé tribe of Ivory Coast in the mid-20th century, features a man and a woman in a single block of wood, symbolizing duality and balance in African culture. The sculpture is a prominent example of the craftsmanship of the Baoulé people, who have kept their traditions alive throughout generations.

Wood Carving from the Mangbetu Tribe - Congo, mid-20th century

The wood carving, originating from the Mangbetu tribe in Congo, is a masterpiece of African sculpture dating back to the mid-20th century. This impressive art piece stands out for its representation of a muscular man sitting on a head, symbolizing strength, authority, and a connection to the ancestral traditions of the Mangbetu. Every detail of the carving reflects the technical skill and deep cultural significance that this tribe attributes to their artistic creations.

Bronze Figure of a Sacred Musician - Thailand, mid-20th century

This bronze figure of a sacred musician is an impressive reflection of Thai culture, symbolizing the richness of its musical and spiritual tradition. Its presence is a testament to the craftsmanship of its time, as well as a reminder of the power that music holds in connecting the human with the divine. Ideal for collectors and art enthusiasts, this piece not only beautifies a space but also invites contemplation of the history and culture it represents. 

Batak Totem: Three-Person Sculpture - Sumatra, Indonesia

The Batak totem is an emblematic piece of the rich cultural heritage of the Batak ethnic group, who mainly inhabit the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. This particular totem, featuring a carving of three stacked human figures—a woman, a man, and another woman—is a reflection of the complex worldview and beliefs of this people. The Batak are known for their rich oral traditions, elaborate ceremonies, and deep connection to nature and their ancestors.

Katana Set (Daisho) - Originals from the 17th Century

The daisho, a traditional Japanese set consisting of a katana (long sword) and a wakizashi (short sword), is a symbol of status and nobility among samurais. This set of two katanas, dated back to the 17th century, represents the mastery of Japanese forging and the deep history of samurai culture.

Bronze Buddha Head with Flame

The bronze Buddha head we present is a piece of art originating from Thailand. This piece, dating back to the mid-20th century, reflects the Thai craftsmanship and the profound spirituality of Buddhism in the region. The figure elegantly displays the serene expression of the Buddha, a symbol of peace and enlightenment.

Carved Ebony Elephant from Tanzania - Mid-20th Century

This ebony elephant figure, originating from Tanzania and carved in the mid-20th century, represents African craftsmanship mastery and symbolizes attributes such as strength and wisdom. In Tanzanian culture, the elephant is considered a symbol of power and protection, reflecting the deep connection between nature and the region's traditional beliefs.

Elephant Figure in Tanzanian Ebony: A Symbol of Strength and Wisdom

This ebony elephant figure, originating from Tanzania, represents the combination of craftsmanship and cultural richness of East Africa. Hand-carved in ebony, one of the most valued woods for its strength and intense black color, the elephant stands out for its fine details, qualities that reflect the artisan's commitment to his culture and his craft.

Wood and Bronze Carved Swan: Elegance and Symbolism from India

This elegant swan figure combines the nobility of hand-carved wood with bronze finishes, bringing a unique aesthetic to the decoration. Coming from India, the piece reflects the country's craftsmanship tradition, where every detail is meticulously crafted. In Indian culture, the swan is not just a decorative symbol, but also represents purity and profound knowledge, attributes associated with Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom and the arts.

Smiling Buddha Figure Carved in Ebony - Chinese Craftsmanship

This beautiful smiling Buddha figure has been meticulously hand-carved in ebony wood, a material prized for its intense dark color and durability. Originating from China, this sculpture embodies the Buddhist tradition with a touch of joy and prosperity, as the smiling Buddha (also known as Budai) is considered a symbol of good luck, abundance, and happiness.

Indian Divinity Bronze Figure - Traditional Craftsmanship

This exquisite bronze figure represents an Indian divinity, carefully handcrafted with a high level of detail, reflecting the rich artistic and spiritual tradition of India. Bronze sculptures like this are a fundamental part of Hindu sacred art, created to honor and venerate the deities of the pantheon. This specific piece stands out for its elegance and devotion, embodying centuries of tradition and craftsmanship.

Leopard Figure Carved in Wood - Bozo Tribe, Mali, 20th Century

This impressive wood-carved leopard figure is a handmade piece created by the Bozo tribe, native to the river lands of Mali, in the 20th century. The Bozo people, known for their close relationship with the Niger River and their skills as fishermen and carvers, reflect through this sculpture their deep connection with nature and the animals that inhabit their surroundings.

Wood Carved Colonist Figure - Ivory Coast, Mid-20th Century

This wood carved colonist figure is a representative piece of folk art from the Ivory Coast, created by local artisans in the mid-20th century. These types of figures, known as "colonist," became a unique form of art during the colonial period in West Africa, and offer a fascinating glimpse into the cultural and social interaction between European colonizers and African communities.

Berber Ceramic from the Early 20th Century - Morocco

This unique piece of Berber ceramics, created in the early 20th century in Morocco, is a fascinating example of the traditional craftsmanship of the Berber people. With a design that reflects centuries of cultural heritage, this ceramic stands out for its rustic and authentic style, rich in symbolism and utility.

Berber ceramics emerged out of a utilitarian need, mainly for storing water, food, and grains, in an environment where resources were limited and self-sufficiency was essential for survival. The Berbers lived (and in many cases still live) in mountainous or desert areas, where clay was one of the most accessible materials.

Over time, the functionality of pottery, jars, plates, and other ceramic objects merged with a symbolic artistic expression. Berber women, who were traditionally in charge of pottery, began decorating these pieces with geometric patterns that reflect their worldview, nature, and spiritual beliefs.

Wooden Bedside Table - From India

Discover the simplicity of this bedside table, handcrafted by Indian artisans. Made of high-quality wood, this piece is not just a piece of furniture, but also a work of art that reflects India's rich cultural tradition.

Sculpture of a Gorilla in Ceramic - Democratic Republic of the Congo

This impressive sculpture of a gorilla, made in ceramic, dates back to the mid-20th century and comes from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This piece is not only a testimony to the artistic talent of the region, but also encapsulates the rich cultural diversity and beliefs of the local communities.

Turbelin Couple from the Dogon Tribe - Mali

The Turbelin couple from the Dogon tribe, originating from Mali, is an artistic representation rich in symbolism and cultural significance. These sculptures are emblematic of the Dogon tradition, which dates back centuries and reflects their deep connection to nature and spirituality.

Wood Carved Figure. Equestrian Dogon from Mali

This impressive equestrian figure, hand-carved by the Dogon tribe of Mali, is a masterpiece that reflects the rich cultural and artistic tradition of this African ethnic group. Coming from the region of the Bandiagara cliffs, the figure exhibits a high level of skill in sculpture, standing out for its fine details and stylized representation of a horseback rider.

Bronze Warrior Figure - Cameroon, Mid-20th Century

This impressive bronze figure of a warrior, originating from Cameroon and dated to the mid-20th century, is a masterpiece that captures the essence of the rich cultural heritage and warrior tradition of African communities.

19th Century Spearhead Currency - Democratic Republic of the Congo

This fascinating currency, dating back to the 19th century, is a unique spearhead originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In the tradition of African societies, particularly in the regions of Central Africa, currency had a deeper meaning than just exchanging goods; they were also symbols of status and negotiation tools.

Small Tibetan Skin Drum: A Sacred Instrument for Meditation and Ceremony

This small skin drum, originating from Tibet, is an instrument that encapsulates the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of this mystical region. With its compact design and meticulous construction, it has become a symbol of the connection between music and spirituality in the Tibetan tradition.

Description of the Tibetan Skin Drum

This Tibetan drum, handcrafted with authentic skin, is an impressive example of the rich musical and spiritual tradition of Tibet. Coming from this mountainous region, where Buddhist culture intertwines with daily life, this instrument not only serves to create music, but also holds a deep ceremonial significance.

19th Century Bronze Oil Lamp from Tibet

Discover the beauty and history of our 19th-century bronze oil lamp, an authentic piece of Tibetan craftsmanship that combines functionality and spiritual aesthetics. This meticulously crafted artifact is a testament to the rich cultural and religious tradition of Tibet, where oil lamps have been used for centuries in rituals and ceremonies.

Burmese Prayer Book: A Spiritual Treasure from the 19th Century

Immerse yourself in the rich spiritual tradition of Burma (Myanmar) with this exceptional 19th-century prayer book, meticulously crafted on palm leaves. This object is not only a testimony to Burmese art and culture but also a valuable tool for devotion and religious practice.

Indian Powder Box: Elegance and Tradition in Every Detail

Discover the exquisite powder box originating from the rich artisanal tradition of India. This unique piece, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, is a perfect example of the art and culture that characterize the region. Powder boxes, historically used to store cosmetics and fine powders, represent not only a functional object but also a symbol of beauty and refinement.