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Female standing figure

Photo: Elizabeth Mann

Female standing figure

20th century

Cote d'Ivoire , Baule culture

An ideal Baule woman is evoked by this figure’s impassive face, long neck, braided hair, erect posture and precisely detailed scarification. She is likely to have been commissioned to address the jealousy of a troublesome spirit, known as a “spirit spouse.” Wooden spouses become companions that one spends nights with and cares for, providing time for consultation about problems in a marriage, difficulties with children, or with finances.
Wood
Height: 17in. (43.2cm)
Gift of Dr. Oliver E. and Pamela F. Cobb
2012.29.1
Provenance: [Charles Ratton Gallery, Paris, 1967]; [Christie’s, Amsterdam, 11 December 2001, lot 376]; purchased at auction by present owner, 2001
Photo: Elizabeth Mann
location
Not currently on view

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