Serpentine stone sculpture of a hippopotamus by Shona artisans of Zimbabwe

This hand-carved serpentine hippo represents a traditional art form of the Shona people of Zimbabwe, who have been creating stone sculptures since the 1950s. The Shona sculpture movement gained international recognition in the 1960s and continues to be celebrated for its blend of African artistic traditions with contemporary forms. These sculptures are typically carved from locally sourced serpentine, verdite, or soapstone, materials abundant in Zimbabwe’s Great Dyke region.

Shona stone carvings appeal to collectors of African art, folk art enthusiasts, and those interested in contemporary tribal craftsmanship. The hippo motif is particularly popular as it represents strength, protection, and connection to African wildlife. These pieces are valued for their cultural authenticity, the skill required to hand-carve the stone, and their representation of a living artistic tradition that supports Zimbabwean artisan communities.