Busts of a couple Bernard RANARISON (dated 1959) Malagasy art

Beautiful pair of busts representing a Malagasy couple, signed by Bernard Ranisson (see attached bio). Extensive character and beautiful carving (expressive facial features and impressive headdresses) in a particularly dense local wood. Very well preserved, dated, signed, and annotated under the base.

Height: 24 cm. Weight of each bust: 1.9 kg

Ranarison Sculptor - An Exploration of Malagasy Wooden Art

A brief introduction to the artist:

Ranarison is a talented Malagasy sculptor who creates wooden works of art that are appreciated by collectors and art lovers around the world. His fame extends far beyond Madagascar, where he began his artistic career. In this article, we will explore his work and its influence on Malagasy wooden art. Ranarison's Life and Work
Born in Tamatave, Ranarison began carving wood at a young age. He developed his own unique style, characterized by slender, slender humanoid figures representative of the Malagasy community, with themes such as family, friendship, solidarity, and overcoming adversity.
Ranarison uses local wood species, such as ebony, mahogany, rosewood, and baobab. He works with great precision to create intricate sculptures that seem to have a life and personality of their own. The artist has also worked with materials other than wood, such as sand, to create ephemeral sculptures.
Ranarison's Influences
Ranarison's art is deeply influenced by Malagasy culture. The tradition of wood carving in Madagascar dates back centuries. Malagasy artisans use wood to create ritual objects, such as funerary posts and amulets. He studied traditional carving techniques and adapted them to create contemporary works of art. He also incorporated elements from other cultures, such as African motifs and Asian forms.
Ranarison's Impact on Malagasy Wood Art
Ranarison is considered one of the greatest Malagasy sculptors of his generation. His work inspired many other Malagasy artists to pursue careers in the visual arts. He also helped introduce Malagasy wood art to a global audience. His sculptures have been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, including France, Belgium, and the United States, and continue to inspire artists and art lovers worldwide.

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