African American Figurines
One of the more fascinating kinds of American collectibles is African American figurines. These figurines are their own unique kind of Americana and are well loved both by collectors and people who want to decorate their home in this style – they are commonly seen adorning mantelpieces, as well as in large collections in neighborhoods across the country from Brooklyn’s Clinton Hill and Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhoods, to Chicago’s Bronzeville to Atlanta, Georgia’s Bulkhead neighborhoods.
Norman A. Hughes (the artist behind the beautiful and popular Sankofa collection of figurines) and others have for decades been crafting high quality African American figurines, a celebration of African American contributions to thee fabric of American culture and are a must have addition to the collection of anyone who considers themselves to be an American history buff or collector of Americana.
African American figurines are a beautiful expression of African American culture and history; and the stories they can tell about the African American experience are a great way to learn all about American history and culture. Like any other collectible, these pieces of Afro-Americana, both new and old, are beloved for their aesthetic appeal and their value as living representatives of American history, no less than any other American produced collectible; though these figurines, even the more recently produced ones, have an appeal which is nearly unmatched among collectible figurines.
The interest in African American figurines has been growing by leaps and bounds. Once the sole province of a small number of collectors, mostly African American themselves, these figurines have found an audience with the broader American public in more recent years. The opening of African American museums all across the country has helped to spur interest in these figurines, as well as other collectible Afro-Americana. There is a high demand for these figurines and vintage ones can command high prices at auctions and through online merchants.
Given the widening appeal of these figurines, there is no better time than the present t invest in African American figurines and begin your own collection of these exquisitely crafted, beautiful to behold and uniquely American artifacts. These pieces are a wonderful addition to any home and are certain to become treasured family heirlooms, passed down from generation to generation. Guests and visiting family members will be struck by the beauty of these figurines; as will your children and you will have the opportunity to teach them a little bit about American history which is often overlooked.
You may find that you foster a love of these figurines in your own family and friends, creating a larger audience for these American relics; and of course then, you’ll have someone to go to auctions with – as long as you’re not afraid of a little competition.
