Standing Miniature Spirit Spouse Figure for Babies

20th century

A young boy and girl stand together, each holding tight to their bellies, but the slight cocked head of the boy hints at the mischief they could sow. Carved to try and assuage the spirits of newborn babies who are ill or restless, these figures have been rubbed with white chalk to relieve their problems. This chalk residue enhances the sharp linear details of the pair.

Wood, chalk

Height: 6 1/4in. (15.9cm)

Gift of Dr. Oliver E. and Pamela F. Cobb

2012.29.4.2

Photo: Elizabeth Mann

Not currently on view

Resources

Published ReferencesVogel, Susan. Baule: African Art/Western Eyes. New York: Center for African Art, 1998, illus. p. 244

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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