Collection
The Misgana ETHOS
Honoring Tradition, Elevating Spaces
At Misgana African Art, we bring authentic African artifacts to the forefront by curating pieces that have been hand-sourced and passed down through generations. Each item was originally created in the community it comes from for utilitarian, functional, or spiritual use. These antique pieces have now been transformed into artworks, artifacts, and design pieces that can be incorporated into contemporary spaces, either for their functional purpose or artistic value. We honor the stories of where these pieces come from, ensuring that their cultural and historical significance is preserved and celebrated in every modern home or collection.
"Misgana" (ምስጋና)—meaning "gratitude" in Amharic, an Ethiopian language—reflects our deep appreciation for the cultures we honor. We bring African art into modern spaces with authenticity, respect, and purpose.
Seble Asfaw
ABout
My name is Seble Asfaw, and I'm the founder of Misgana African Art. My passion for traditional African art began in childhood, particularly during my trips to Ethiopian villages with my mother. I was captivated by the distinct designs of stools, benches, jewelry, and textiles in each region, which deepened my connection to diverse Ethiopian art forms. My appreciation for African art and design grew from there.
I'm a first-generation American; however, my identity is shaped by those formative years spent with my family in Ethiopia. I founded Misgana in 2019, initially as an art advisory, helping collectors discover and acquire traditional African art. Today, Misgana has grown into an online gallery dedicated to sharing African art in a way that highlights the roots and stories of each piece. My vision is for Misgana to connect people not only to African artifacts but also to the narratives that give them meaning.