African American history is an essential part of our culture. When you explore the evolution of the United States, you will discover passionate Black Americans who have strengthened our country’s foundation and powerful, Black-led movements that have shaped our moral fiber. We practice gratitude for these historic leaders and their groundbreaking contributions each day, which is why the United States recognizes every February as Black History Month. Dedicated to honoring and exploring the rich tapestry of African American history, achievements, and ongoing contributions to our nation, Black History Month serves as both a celebration and a vital reminder of the significant impact Black Americans have had in shaping the cultural, political, and social landscape of our country.
Black History Month provides an opportunity to engage with contemporary Black voices and experiences while remembering the past. It’s a time when schools, organizations, and communities come together to spotlight Black excellence through educational programs, cultural events, and meaningful discussions about both historical and present-day issues affecting the Black community.
The significance of this observance extends far beyond a mere historical retrospective. It serves as a reminder that Black history is American history – not a separate narrative, but an integral thread in the fabric of our national story. From the revolutionary accomplishments of Frederick Douglass to the poetic genius of Dr. Maya Angelou, from the civil rights leadership of Martin Luther King Jr. to the inspiring expression of artist Keith Mallett, Black Americans have persistently pushed our nation toward its highest ideals.
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The Evolution of Black History Month
In 1926, historian Carter G. Woodson launched “Negro History Week,” choosing February to honor the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. As the second African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard and the son of former slaves, Woodson recognized a critical gap in American education – the absence of Black Americans from history books.
The week-long observance evolved during the Civil Rights Movement, with Black educators and students at Kent State University first celebrating Black History Month in 1970. President Gerald Ford officially recognized it in 1976, during the nation’s bicentennial celebration, calling on Americans to honor the often-overlooked accomplishments of Black Americans throughout history.
Today, Black History Month has grown into an international celebration, with countries like Canada and the United Kingdom joining in recognizing Black achievements and culture. What began as Woodson’s mission to preserve and celebrate Black history in America’s schools has become a powerful platform for education, celebration, and continued advocacy for racial equality.
Unique Collectibles to Recognize the Significance of Black History Month
In examining the rich history of Black History Month and its necessary relevance in our culture, the concept of stories is one of the first things that comes to mind. That’s because stories can be powerful memories that remind us about our past. They can also advise us on our future if we listen to them well. And this is precisely what makes collectibles significant artifacts.
Every collectible tells a story. Whether it’s a sculpture of a groundbreaking person from our heritage, a fashionable tribute to a fresh new voice, or an artistic keepsake representing the values of cultural diversity, these items serve as tangible connections to our past, both personal and collective. They are more than mere objects – they are time capsules that represent our history.
Since 1973, The Bradford Exchange has been recognized as a premier destination for discovering unique collectibles that celebrate a wealth of passions and interests. Many of these expertly crafted keepsakes profile important events and famous people throughout history, which is why we have curated a list of thoroughly inspiring collectibles to help celebrate Black History Month. The list profiles two renowned African American figures in our society: painter and sculpture Keith Mallett, the late Dr. Maya Angelou, author, poet and activist, and the true firebrand of the civil rights movement, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. We hope you enjoy Celebrating Black History Month: Unique Collectibles Honoring African American Heritage.
Keith Mallett Collectibles, Jewelry and Apparel
Keith Mallett is an acclaimed American artist known for his vibrant, emotionally resonant works celebrating African American culture and heritage. Beginning his artistic journey in the early 1980s, Mallett developed a distinctive style that blends classical techniques with contemporary themes, often incorporating musical motifs, cultural symbols, and powerful representations of family and community. Mallett’s art continues to inspire audiences through his masterful use of color, composition, and symbolism to tell stories of dignity, strength, and cultural pride. Below you will find some excellent examples of Mr. Mallett’s unique vision.
Booker T. Washington Tribute Sculpture
Born into slavery, Booker T. Washington would rise to prominence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries to be the leading advocate of vocational education for African Americans. This first-of-its-kind handcrafted tribute sculpture recognizes his historical significance with a realistic likeness, a result of a working partnership with acclaimed artist Keith Mallett. Rich with hand-painted details, it captures Mr. Washington in figural form, atop a granite-like 4-sided pedestal base highlighted with 4 archival photos and 4 quotes from the influential leader, educator and reformer.
God Says You Are… Figurine Collection
Reminding us how precious we are in the Lord’s eyes, this inspiring collection brings comfort to every day with beautiful, handcrafted angel figurines. From a special commission with renowned artist Keith Mallett, each heavenly being is handcrafted of artist’s resin and hand-painted by Master Artisans under the careful direction of Mr. Mallett. Enhanced with hand-gilded “feather” wings, golden sashes, hand-applied designs and etched hairstyles, they offer hope, encouragement and affirmation through the uplifting words inscribed in golden lettering on their flowing gowns.
Angelic Inspirations Wine Glass Collection
The warrior angels of acclaimed African American artist Keith Mallett are paired with powerful words of faith and inspiration in this collection of gorgeous colored wine glasses. Arriving in sets of 2, these heavenly drinking vessels feature either a full-color image from Mr. Mallett or golden words of encouragement. Every sip is sure to be uplifting, enhanced by the gleam of 12K gold rims – a hallmark of high-quality stemware. Plus, every glass endures a time-consuming, triple firing process to ensure years of enjoyment.
Beauty & Strength Handbag
Four famous works of art from Keith Mallett’s repertoire unite to embody the essence of African elegance. Appearing in marvelous montage and showcased in patterns inspired by African textiles across the front of this pebbled faux leather handbag, it’s the ultimate statement of beauty and strength. Shimmering gold-toned hardware, a red calla lily-shaped charm and a belt accent highlight its fashionable design. There’s plenty of room inside to keep your belongings secure and the double handles and removable, adjustable shoulder strap offer multiple carry options.
Sisters of the Sun Pendant Necklace
Keith Mallett’s acclaimed “Sisters of the Sun” painting comes to vivid life like never before in a design you can take everywhere: an exquisitely crafted solid copper pendant. Paying tribute to the strength and power of African woman worldwide, this striking jewelry piece is sculpted with tribal motifs for a rich, textured look. And genuine red agate and genuine malachite beads, along with beads crafted from natural materials, bring everything together in this unique statement of heritage. Plus, you will also receive a deluxe velvet jewelry pouch and custom presentation case.
Keith Mallett Wind Chime Collection
Embodying the essence of soul, freedom and joy, the vision of Keith Mallett is sure to put a song in your heart. Especially as his artwork, inspired by African American culture and strong female figures, is the foundation of this collection of handcrafted metal wind chimes. With a style taken from historic African American freedom quilts, each tuneful treasure is graced with butterfly art and African tribal-inspired patterns and borders. With each gentle breeze, the wind chimes will create peaceful tones. You can also gently pull on their ringing cords, featuring cut-out metal butterflies and sparking faux jewels, to create the resonant sounds yourself. UV coated for use both inside and outside.
Frederick Douglass Sculpture
Born a slave in 1818, Frederick Douglass emerged as a towering figure in America’s mid-1800s, becoming a powerful voice for abolition and equal rights for Black Americans. This first-of-its-kind handcrafted tribute sculpture, by distinguished artist Keith Mallett, honors his enduring legacy with an authentic portrayal. Featuring meticulous hand-painted embellishments, the piece depicts Mr. Douglass in lifelike detail, standing upon a 4-sided base that incorporates archival photographs and memorable quotations from this legendary freedom fighter, writer, and social reformer.
Empowering Crystal Elegance Elephant Figurine Collection
Let award-winning artist Keith Mallett’s vision of nature’s gentle giants bring power, elegance and beauty to your home. This limited-edition collection of elephant figurines radiates with hand-set faux gems inspired by symbolic gems like amethyst, onyx, citrine and more, elevating their meaning. Each figurine is masterfully handcrafted of artist’s resin and painted by hand with a high-gloss black finish and an intricate design of metallic accents to make them stand out.
Strength in Sisterhood Women’s Hoodie
There is strength in sisterhood! The bold bond of powerful Black women is stylishly captured on this inspiring hoodie. On the back, a stunning recreation of Keith Mallett’s painting “Three Sisters” joins an embroidered message of solidarity, complemented on the front by embroidered floral art and the sentiment “STRONGER together”. Masterfully crafted of a black easy-care cotton blend, this full front-zip women’s sweatshirt boasts multiple pockets, rib knit cuffs and hem, and a tear-shaped zipper pull.
Want to see our entire collection of Keith Mallett collectibles?
Dr. Maya Angelou Collectibles
Maya Angelou was a towering figure in American literature and civil rights, whose remarkable life journey took her from a childhood in the segregated South to becoming one of the most influential voices of the 20th century. As a poet, memoirist, and activist, she captivated the world with works like “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” and her poem “Still I Rise,” which spoke powerfully to the Black experience in America and universal themes of resilience and hope. Beyond her literary achievements, Angelou was a Renaissance woman who worked as a dancer, actress, journalist, and educator, breaking barriers as the first Black woman to write a best-selling nonfiction book and to have a screenplay produced. Her legacy continues to inspire generations through her profound wisdom, unwavering courage, and celebration of the human spirit. Below you will find some moving tributes to her legacy.
Dr. Maya Angelou Limited-Edition Sculpture
In this first-of-its-kind homage to Maya Angelou, the beloved poet, writer, and civil rights champion who transformed life’s deepest sorrows into literary treasures, an exquisite 11-inch sculpture embodies her graceful spirit. Handcrafted of artist resin, this limited-edition sculpture is painted by hand to capture every nuanced detail – from the gentle folds of her flowing robe to her cherished Kenyan walking cane. The striking figure of Dr. Angelou stands atop a 4-sided, granite-like pedestal adorned with archival photos and her quotes, echoing the wisdom and passion that touched countless hearts.
Treasured Reflections of Dr. Maya Angelou Figurine
Dr. Maya Angelou is immortalized in this breathtaking tribute. Handcrafted of artist’s resin by master artisans and painted by hand, this limited-edition figurine captures her angelic spirit, dressed in an elegant full-length gown that radiates with over 24 Swarovski crystals and an etched metallic golden rose pattern. Rising behind her, a hand-polished crystalline dove – echoing her autobiography “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” – takes flight, while her empowering words and facsimile signature adorn the mirrored base, a testament to her enduring legacy of love and courage.
Want to see our entire collection of Dr. Maya Angelou collectibles?
Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Collectibles
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968) emerged as the foremost leader of the American civil rights movement, championing racial equality through nonviolent resistance. A Baptist minister and gifted orator, he led the Montgomery Bus Boycott, founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, and organized pivotal protests including the March on Washington, where he delivered his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech. His unwavering commitment to justice earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 1964. Despite facing constant threats, imprisonment, and violence, King persevered until his assassination in Memphis. His legacy lives on through his great impact on civil rights, social justice, and American society. Below is a power tribute to his enduring legacy.
Martin Luther King Jr. Words of Wisdom Wall Decor Collection
Now you can witness the passionate vision of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. immortalized in a new and powerful way: on limited-edition wall plaques. This collection profiles some of Dr. King’s most profound words of wisdom on shimmering metal plates, framed on walnut-finished wooden plaques. Each tribute is enhanced with historic imagery and his facsimile signature, along with golden inner borders that highlight these significant moments in civil rights history and MLK’s inspiring dream for our nation.
We sincerely hope our picks for Black History Month have been inspiring. Whether shopping for yourself or for someone special, we trust you will visit The Bradford Exchange again soon to explore our unique collectibles, fine jewelry, artistic apparel, home decor and more – each one with its own unique story.
Celebrating Black History Month: Unique Collectibles Honoring African American Heritage by The Bradford Exchange
About The Bradford Exchange
The Gift Advisors @The Bradford Exchange are thrilled to help you discover a wealth of artistic treasures, all of which began with passion. Whether you are looking for that perfect personalized gift or a unique collection for yourself, we are driven to make your shopping experience as joyful as possible and hope you are surprised and delighted with what you find. Thank you for your continued support.