Some other items important to the artisans creating the sculptures include a finely detailed, balanced representation of an idealized human form made with the highest craftsmanship possible.  The human form depicted should be healthy, in the prime of life, and convey a sense a vitality, strength, health, and composure and dignity when nobility is represented.

The media for African sculptures is usually as close to its natural state as possible.  For example, sculptures will be made in clay, but normally are not highly ornamented when complete.  The beauty of the figure itself will speak to the artistic value of what is represented.  For example, an image of a woman dancing will not need to have the details of her dress painted on the sculpture, but the lines and detailing within the figures structure will convey the entire message.  Because of this, the majority of sculpture is monochromatic.  The primary medium for sculpture is wood or bronze.

Another popular form of African art usually linked with sculptures includes the tribal masks commonly used for community purposes.  Masks are used within African communities for coming of age ceremonies, seasonal celebrations, weddings, and religious ceremonies.  The form and ornamentation of a mask was for a specific purpose.  For example, the mirrors used in masks were to reflect bad spirits away from the wearer, whereas beads were to increase the power of the mask.  Feathers were used to add protection from danger, and incorporating animal fur or human hair was thought to help the mask better connect to the wearer.   The mask is worn by dancers performing specific movements to the sound of tribal music, and masks are either burned at the end of a ceremony or stored for later use.  Traditionally masks were never discarded as they were thought to contain a spirit.  As a result, finding an authentic African mask may be challenging, although many replicas are readily available.

Pricing for African sculptures can vary wildly based on the age, rarity, and authenticity.  Due to the ceremonial importance of some items they are rarely sold by the original craftsman.  Many of these items will be from archaeological discoveries and the original will be in a museum.  However, it is common for replicas to be available starting around $40 depending on the size.  Other items were originally designed to convey the owners’ wealth and status within the culture.  As is common for all status symbols, if the owner falls on hard times, it is not unusual to sell the item.  These sculptures are generally depictions of the individual with their prized possessions on them, and can be found available for purchase through reputable dealers.

The rugs are frequently earthen-toned with black elements.  The most popular designs are zebra, cheetah, giraffe, and leopard prints, and add a high visual impact to a surface.  It is important to note when pairing these items that patterned furniture will most likely not blend well with this dramatic statement.  Some rug makers are blending the traditional diamond-shaped layout of Persian rugs with animal print from Africa inside the diamonds.  This allows for an elegant statement, and is has greater flexibility for matching furniture.  Other rugs use African animal print themes as a large border around a solid interior.  This is an excellent way to accent the perimeter of the rug, but not detract from the overall serenity of a room.  As some of these African inspired rugs are not originally African in production, the prices start very low for mass merchandised options.  A smaller area rug starts around $30, whereas larger, higher quality rugs may be upwards of $500.

Other design patters are vignettes of the flora and fauna of the savannah.  A rug may be devoted entirely to a depiction of one type of branch or leaf, or a series of different potions of the vegetation may be displayed in an almost quilt-like pattern of squares.  The coloring for this style of rug is much more varied.  Anywhere from bright reds to muted beiges are available, in a variety of sizes.

For a truly original rug, many local African artisans are hand making brightly colored rugs that resemble paintings in design.  Some depict a group of women dancing, others a farmer working in his fields, and others appear to be representations of the wildlife itself.  It is not uncommon for these highly ornate rugs to be used as a wall tapestry as well; the hand-made rugs may be slightly thinner in design than African inspired rugs commercially made entirely for floor application.  Pricing for these items varies by the local artisan and ease of import.  Realistically, the consumer should expect to pay a minimum of $100 for handcrafted African rugs.

For those seeking a truly African experience, Zebra skins and other exotic animal hides may be obtained as a rug.  It is important to ensure when securing this type of rug that a reputable dealer is selected.  The dealer should be working with the local government to ensure the pelt was obtained during a government approving culling of the heard, and is not the result of poaching of other illegal activities.  Prices for these items are high, and rarely start at less than $2000.  It is also important to remember when importing an exotic animal skin that there may be more difficulties in going through customs.

African rugs are sure to make a bold statement in any room.  By selecting the perfect location, working to ensure it matches the rooms’ décor, and accessorizing appropriately,            you can provide a highly energized ambience to your room today.

The styling of African Furniture focuses heavily on utilizing natural materials.  Rather than using man made metals, tables will typically be Mahogany, Teak or Obeche wood.  A chair will not use polyester, but leather either in a solid rich brown, or focusing on a zebra or leopard print.  Local African artisans also use animal bone fragments and horns to create colorful unique designs.  An excellent example of this is the Horn and Bone table available from Phases of Africa.  When steel or other metals are used in the structure, it is common for them to be recycled from unused railroads or scrap sources.

The lines of African inspired furniture are sculptural to the eye, and seem to follow a natural curve intrinsic in animal motion.  The legs of a table will not be completely straight, but slightly bowed as if a predator crouching in the Savannah.  The exact lines of the furniture may vary by region.  For example the Ananse focus more on circular elements, whereas pieces from Ghana are more based on the movement of walking.

The fabrics utilized are commonly leathers made from indigenous animals.  For example, chairs are made in the skin of an ostrich rather than domestic tanned cow hide.  Due to the rarity of furniture of this quality, utilizing these materials provides a unique texture and appearance to the leather.  Other craftsmen work with the local governments to use the un-tanned hides of native herds.  Governments will have controlled herd thinning of the Springbok deer and donate the skins to furniture designers.  In times of drought, Zebra, Leopard, and Giraffe skins may also be obtained when environmentally approved herd thinning occurs.  Frequently a portion of the profits from this style furniture will be donated to local causes, and using any portion of an endangered species is strictly forbidden.

The colors used primarily in African furniture remain close to those displayed in nature.  The hides of animals are very rarely dyed during the tanning process, and are frequently various shades of brown.  For animal hides used from culling, due to the rarity of this fur to be utilized in design, it would be foolish to alter the appearance of the hide.  When dyes are used, as in the example of bone fragments, they usually reflect the same colors used in African art.  For example, oranges, vibrant blues, reds, and yellows are common in adornment.

Prices for furniture from Africa vary dramatically, and depend on the rarity of the items used in manufacturing.  Solid wooden pieces, while solid, will most likely not cost as much as larger pieces utilizing hides of animals.  As this is a newer market for design, locating authentic pieces may be challenging.  Work with a decorator, or locate a reputable online specialty store to ensure the authenticity of your items.  Depending on the piece, you may spend anywhere from $70 to over $10000 for a piece of original, beautiful African inspired furniture.

Vendors such as allposters.com and art.com offer a wide array of African Art.  As allposters.com focuses on paintings as the primary medium, the majority of the pieces offered will be affordable prints.  The site is known for having regular sales, and offers a wide variety within any genre.  Some excellent examples of African Art available for sale are “Namib” by Leon Wells and “Butterfly Wings” by Anthony Ross.  Other art prints were not originally canvas paintings, but paint from other mediums.  For example, prints are available of the art found in the Tomb of Nefertiti.  Pieces not originally paintings include masterful photographs of the mummy of Merenptah and a traditional mask from Gelede.

Regardless of the merchant, African Art Prints bring vibrant colors into the home or office.  The main colors in African Art are oranges, browns, blues, greens, and reds.  An excellent example of these joyful colors in play is “Unity” by Monica Stewart.  The predominant subject of African artwork is human existence.  A large portion of pieces feature one or more women, usually dancing or caring for others.  The artwork conveys a sense of motion, exuberance, and community.  It is uncommon to see a sole male as the subject, and this is more common in photography than paintings.  In the instances where a person is alone in the print, the subject matter usually involves an appeal to God, and the subject is not truly alone, but communing with the unseen.

African art prints are available at many different price points.  Smaller prints by lesser known artists start at $5, whereas larger prints of famous pieces may be upwards of $500.  Most vendors will also offer the choice to receive the print only, or to have it arrive matted and framed.  When selecting the matte and print, the sites allow the consumer to view the finished product to ensure the frame and matte choices are appropriate for the artwork.  Some sites also offer the choice to pick a color close to the wall where it will hang to ensure the overall aesthetic appeal.

Other African Art Prints can be purchased through specialty vendors that donate all proceeds to charitable organizations.  For example, at millenniumglobalwildlifeproject.com all prints are from artist Zephania Sav Borro.  While many typical African colors are used, his subjects are the animals native to the African terrain.  The site provides information as to the various charitable organizations benefiting from sales, and focus mainly on wildlife conversation and refugee relief.

Until recently, anything named “African” was only by “Black Africans”.  However, in recent years, the art community has decided that Africans of any cultural descent should be included.  This has broadened the scope of African art to include that of ancient Egypt and Caucasians who have also lived and worked in Africa.  This inclusionary attitude allows for a more complete artistic view of the entire African experience; the modern day laypersons to the ancient ruler are all reflected.  With a defining sense of community, joyful colors, and singular voice, it is easy to see why incorporating African Art into a home or office creates an inviting, positive atmosphere

African decorations have a long history of working with the natural colorings of all items they utilize.  From making furniture from un-dyed hides, to keeping wood unpainted when used in sculpture, the essence of the natural material will easily shine through in the finished piece.  Even ornate pieces such as masks attempt to leave as much natural material as possible.  This will translate into an opulent color scheme rich in reds, browns, oranges, greens, and blues.  The majorities of African inspired rooms take on a burnt sunset quality and are richest in oranges and browns, and this should be considered when selecting a paint scheme for your room.

African Home Decor also utilizes dramatic statements and clean lines.  As such, it is best to determine what your primary focal item will be.  This may be an attractive zebra skin rug, a feathered mask, an exquisite table made from animal horns, or a breathtaking sculpture 3 feet high.  Whatever your primary item is, it will determine the complimentary colors and item placement throughout the rest of the room.

It is important to keep an eye on the amount of pieces being brought into the room.  It is easy to allow too many African pieces to overwhelm a piece and take on a museum quality.  However, selecting a few dramatic pieces and keeping the rest of the room understated the space will look elegant and timeless rather than trendy or outdated.

The most complimentary furnishings with African décor tend to be rich, dark leathers and wooden pieces.  For the most part, metal looks out of place.  If you feel you need to brighten your home environment, lighter shad woods are a great way to do this without sacrificing the elegance of the room.  For the most part, cloth sofas and chairs do not naturally match African décor.

An added benefit of bringing African Home Decor into your living space is the ability to supplement charitable organizations through your purchases.  Stores like AfricanConservancy.com and WomenforWomenInternational.com provide links to vendors that donate proceeds of sales to funding AIDS research or providing microloans for poverty stricken homes to start a business.  Some examples of décor items available through these stores are decorative vases, hand carved figurines, mask replicas, and hand crafted rugs, art prints, and jewelry.  Prices may be slightly higher than replicas available at mass merchandisers, but this covers the cost of importing the item as well as charitable operating costs.

Weather starting a new decorating scheme by simply incorporating a few new items, or starting from scratch to completely redecorate your home in African décor, the power of this style is apparent to all.  The same representations that have spoken to centuries of the African people can be incorporated into your home for a timeless appeal.