Summary The dark, gleaming black of ebony wood reflects all Tanzanian culture. The Mwenge woodcarvers' market is located in downtown Dar es Salaam, on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Ebony carvings, masks and boxes share crowded shelves under the stalls' corrugated roofs. Twelve hours a day, the Mwembe market's 150 shops offer locals and visitors a wide range of objects carved in ebony wood. Originating in the traditions of Tanzania's Makondé people, there are three main styles of ebony carving: ujamaa or the tree of life, tall and richly detailed; shaitani, composed of imperfect shapes often alluding to the afterlife; and modern works, depicting the people and animals of the savannah. While the merchants dust, shine and varnish their wares, artists toil patiently and meticulously in an open-air studio, well-sharpened tools in hand. Mwenbe market also has jewellery, clothing and antiques, as well as paintings of the tingatinga movement, a folk-art genre known for the use of brilliant colours. Despite slowing business and the gradual disappearance of raw materials, ebony carving continues, deeply rooted in ever-optimistic Tanzanian tradition. Wander through the Mwembe art market and behold the strength and subtlety of ebony thanks to these precious, vibrant carvings.

• Documentary