When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Vintage Haitian Modernist Abstract Wood Sculptures — Matching Pair — Circa 1970s–1980s — Theodore Dubyk Collection
An exceptional pair of vintage Haitian hand-carved wooden sculptures featuring elongated, abstract humanlike figures with dramatic flowing forms, intricately carved negative spaces, and distinctive modernist styling.These sculptures originated from the historical Haitian art and artifact collection of Theodore \"Ted\" Dubyk, an explorer and diver whose extensive collection includes Haitian folk art, traditional wooden carvings, sculptures, maritime artifacts, and historical objects acquired during his time in Haiti and the Caribbean.
Artistic Style & Design
Both sculptures demonstrate the expressive qualities associated with Haitian modernist woodcarving of the mid-to-late 20th century.
The taller sculpture features an elongated composition with intertwining limbs and narrow open spaces, culminating in a stylized carved head.
The companion sculpture presents a similarly abstract figure with a prominent head, flowing curved elements, and a large oval opening incorporated into the lower body.
Each sculpture rests on an individually carved wooden pedestal base.
The pair displays complementary proportions, materials, and artistic techniques, making them particularly appealing as a coordinated decorative or collectible display.
Artist Attribution
The sculptor has not yet been positively identified.
The works share stylistic characteristics with Haitian modernist woodcarving traditions associated with artists such as André Dimanche and Ludovic Booz, including elongated figures, organic shapes, and sculptural openwork.
These comparisons are stylistic only and do not constitute an artist attribution.
Theodore Dubyk Collection Provenance
Both sculptures are from the private collection associated with Theodore Dubyk, whose exploration activities and collecting history included Haiti and the wider Caribbean during the latter half of the 20th century.
The collection also includes signed Haitian sculptures, historical ceramics, and maritime artifacts.
These two sculptures are offered together as part of that collection, with their precise acquisition dates and original artist presently unverified.
Item Details
Origin: Haiti, Haitian Modernist / Abstract / Figurative
Period: Estimated 1970s–1980s
Medium: Hand-carved wood
Finish: Dark polished brown
Subject: Stylized abstract figures
Artist: Unidentified
Quantity: Two sculptures, sold together
Bases: Integrated wooden display bases
Collection: Theodore Dubyk Haitian Art Collection
Authenticity: Vintage hand-carved artwork; exact artist and age not independently authenticated
Collector Appeal
An attractive addition to a collection of Haitian folk art, Caribbean sculpture, modernist decorative arts, or vintage hand-carved wooden figures.
Their complementary forms make them ideal for display together on a console, mantel, bookshelf, or within a curated art collection.
Both sculptures pictured are included in the sale.