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Almann Ulysse (Haitian, b. 1945)
Vintage Two Birds and Tree Oil Drum Sculpture
c. 1970 | Early Career Masterwork
Signed in metal (trunk of tree)
18.25"H × 14.6"W
Description:
A rare early sculpture by Haitian metalwork master Almann Ulysse, showcasing his foundational role in the fè koupé tradition. Crafted from a recycled oil drum using only basic hand tools, this piece depicts two birds nestled beneath a tree with flowering branches and exposed roots. The artist’s signature is deftly carved into the trunk itself at the bottom.
Artist Background:
Born in Croix-des-Bouquets, the birthplace of fè koupé, Almann Ulysse has become a guardian of this vibrant Haitian tradition. A 2007 Florida Folk Heritage Award winner, he served as a master artist in the Florida Folklife Apprenticeship Program, where he preserved and advanced the craft. Recognized for creating the finest fè koupé, his works draw from nature (birds, trees, marine life), biblical narratives, and Haitian folklore, particularly the aquatic spirit Lasirèn. Using repurposed oil drums and simple hand tools, Ulysse transforms industrial refuse into lyrical sculptures that resonate with cultural memory.
Key Details:
- Heavy, authentic patina from decades of aging
- Characteristic tool marks visible in metalwork
- Early example of Ulysse’s nature-inspired themes
Condition Notes:
- Stable metal with expected oxidation
- No structural compromises
- Surface wear consistent with age and material
Cultural Significance:
This sculpture exemplifies early Haitian metal art techniques and sustainable material practices.
