Wazee Watatu - Heritage Bronze Statue
A gathering of elders, sculpted to outlast generations.
Ships within 48 hours
Product description
Discover Wazee Watatu, "the three sages" in Swahili. A handcrafted bronze sculpture of three sages designed for spaces where presence feels intentional. Made in Burkina Faso by skilled artisans using the traditional lost-wax method, this piece is truly one of a kind: after casting, the mold is broken, so no sculpture can ever be reproduced exactly. The final hand-applied patina creates subtle variations in tone and texture, meaning each of our pieces is unique and can't be replicated.
Dimensions
- Material: Genuine bronze (solid cast)
- Finish: Hand-patinated, softly textured (subtle artisanal variations may occur)
- Color: Grey with a yellow dress (may vary slightly from piece to piece)
- Height: approx. 40 x 65
- Weight: approx. 16kg
- Use: Indoor display on a stable, flat surface (console, shelf, sideboard)
Shipping
We ship to selected destinations in North America, Europe, and Africa with UPS. Shipping rates are calculated at checkout based on your destination and order size. Additional customs duties or import taxes may apply depending on your country and remain the responsibility of the recipient.
Delivery for international customers typically takes 8 to 15 business days from the date of dispatch, depending on the destination.
For any questions regarding shipping, please email us at contact@umojastudio.fr
Materials & Care
This object is made from bronze.
For advice on how to best care for our collections you can find our guide here.
Three Who Have Seen
Wazee Watatu means "the three sages" in Swahili. This set of three standing figures embodies the spirit of community that runs through so many African cultures. Each figure has a sculpted head with different designs, a cylindrical wooden body wrapped in fabric, and a small metal base.
The fabrics differ across the three, one draped in dark mudcloth with geometric patterns, the others in a softer natural ochre textile. Each face carries a slightly different expression, as if they are mid-conversation. Together they create a quiet sense of gathering, the kind of presence that makes a room feel grounded and intentional. A piece of african art that would change your space.
Made by Hand in Burkina Faso
Each figure in The Living Figures collection is made by artisans in Burkina Faso using the lost wax casting method. A wax model is sculpted by hand, encased in clay, then fired. The molten metal fills the mold as the wax melts away, and once cooled the clay mold is broken and discarded, making every cast unique.
The metal components are finished with a hand applied patina that deepens the dark warm tones you see here. The wooden bodies and fabric wrapping are assembled separately, with textiles chosen to reflect traditional weaving and dyeing practices. The result is a piece that carries real craft and cultural meaning.
The man behind UMOJA
Thed is a young Congolese entrepreneur shaped by travel and anchored in African heritage. UMOJA was created to bring that connection into the home through exceptional pieces objects that feel timeless, intentional, and deeply rooted.
More than décor, each sculpture carries a quiet presence: a reminder of origins, culture, and identity translated into modern, minimal forms that elevate a space without overpowering it.
African roots, refined into contemporary design.
Discover more
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The Muse 08 - West African Bronze Statue
F.A.Q
What is lost wax casting?
Lost wax casting is one of the oldest metalworking techniques in the world. The artist begins by sculpting the original form in wax, which is then covered in a clay mold. When heated, the wax melts away, leaving a hollow cavity that is filled with molten bronze. Once cooled, the clay mold is broken to reveal the finished bronze statue. Because the mold is destroyed in the process, each piece can only exist once.
What inspired The Living Figures collection ?
The Living Figures collection is inspired by the stories, traditions, and identities that shape African cultures. Each piece carries a name drawn from African languages such as Lingala, Swahili, and Dogon, giving every West African bronze statue a meaning that goes beyond its form. The collection celebrates the diversity of the African continent through figures that embody community, heritage, love and everyday life. Every statue is cast by artisans in Burkina Faso using the lost wax casting technique, connecting ancient craftsmanship to contemporary art.
How are bronze statues made?
Every bronze statue in our collection is made by artisans in Burkina Faso using the traditional lost wax casting technique. The process begins with a hand-sculpted wax model, followed by mold creation, bronze pouring, and careful finishing. After casting, the patina is applied by hand, giving each statue its own tones, textures, and character. The entire process can take several weeks from start to finish.
How should I care for my bronze statue ?
Bronze is one of the most durable materials in art and requires very little maintenance. Dust your statue regularly with a soft dry cloth. Avoid using water, chemical cleaners, or abrasive materials as these can damage the patina. Keep your bronze statue away from direct sunlight for extended periods to preserve the depth of its color. Over time, the patina may evolve naturally, which adds character and authenticity to the piece.
What makes each bronze statue unique ?
Each bronze statue is cast using the lost wax casting method, which requires the mold to be completely destroyed after a single casting. This means no two statues can ever be identical. Beyond the casting process, the patina is applied by hand by artisans in Burkina Faso, creating subtle variations in color, texture, and finish that make every piece truly its own.
Where are your bronze sculptures made ?
All of our bronze sculptures are made in Burkina Faso, West Africa. They are created by master artisans who have inherited the lost wax casting technique through generations. Each piece is cast, finished, and patinated entirely by hand in their workshops. By working directly with these artisans, UMOJA supports authentic West African art and craftsmanship.
How long does a bronze statue last?
A bronze statue is built to last for centuries. Bronze is an extremely resilient metal that does not rust or deteriorate under normal indoor conditions. Many ancient bronze sculptures dating back thousands of years are still intact today in museums around the world. With minimal care, your statue will maintain its beauty for generations.
