PHILIP MLIMA (B. 1978) Ancestry

signed ‘P Mlima’ stone H. 62.5cm Born in Harare in 1978, Philip Mlima is a contemporary Zimbabwean sculptor working within the celebrated tradition of Shona stone sculpture. He began sculpting in 1998 after being mentored by the renowned Zimbabwean sculptor Gerald Takawira, whose influence shaped his early artistic development. Working primarily in serpentine and other locally sourced stones, Mlima creates abstract, figurative and animal subjects inspired by Shona culture and its close relationship with nature. His sculptures, often depicting birds and symbolic forms, explore themes of harmony, spirituality and cultural identity. Zimbabwe, whose name derives from the Shona phrase dzimba dza mabwe ("houses of stone"), is renowned for its rich deposits of sculptural stone, giving rise to the internationally recognised Shona sculpture movement. Upon the buyer’s request, we are pleased to provide a general condition report for the Lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise prospective buyers to conduct their own inspection or consult a specialist or restorer of their choice for a comprehensive professional assessment. Any condition descriptions provided in the catalogue or through any correspondence are for guidance only and should not be considered a substitute for a firsthand evaluation. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD ‘AS IS’ IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE.