Male standing figure

Male standing figure

20th century

Jealousy is resolved in Baule culture by the acquisition of a “person of wood” who enables the owner to communicate with troublesome spirits. This tall figure embodies the physical qualities prized by the Baule: impassive faces, long necks, contained postures, and precisely detailed scarification and hair styles.
This figure was likely commissioned by a person who was in distress, concerned about the disruptions caused by what is called a “spirit spouse”. All Baule adults have a mate of the opposite sex living in the otherworld who can be demanding and causing problems in a marriage, with children, or with finances. Wooden spirit spouses become companions that one spends at least one night a week with and cares for. The smooth glossy skin on this sculpture is a sign that this spouse has been fondly polished. Always standing with a strong vertical axis, the spirit spouse’s legs are flexed and full, in a manner admired by the Baule as the sign of a person in their prime.
This group of standing figures complements the other set of Baule statuary in the museum’s collection, which features an unusual lineage of all seated figures. Together, they illustrate the range of skillful formal compositions of which Baule art is capable.

Wood, beads

Height: 18 1/2in. (47cm)

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

2012.29.2

Provenance: [Sotheby’s, May 2, 1970, lot 65, illustrated]; purchased at auction by present owner, 1970

Photo: Elizabeth Mann

Not currently on view

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