Baule Hand Carved Colonial Period Male Ancestor Figure from Ivory Coast/Côte d’Ivoire

Standing male figure carved by the Baule peoples of the Ivory Coast depicting a male ancestor. His hands are resting on his abdomen with an elaborate high crest coiffure and scarification on face as well as body. He has an upward gaze expression on his face with high arched eye brows, large open eyes, and a long ribbed neck The piece is adorned with a small strand of white glass beads with feet apart and standing on a rounded square wood based affixed to a lucite block.

Known as a Blolo Bian to the villagers of the region, the figure represents a male ancestor who longs to be partnered with a female spirit lover. Figures of this type are ritually adorned with oils and magic substances to pay homage to the deceased. There is an overall black patina with signs of some ritual use. This is a verified tribal artifact and was crafted during the Colonial Period.

It would complement an entry, study or main living space in a variety of interiors from Traditional to Boho or Mid-Century Modern.  

Place of Origin: Ivory Coast/Côte d’Ivoire  

Date of Manufacture: 1945-1960 (Colonial Period)

Condition: Excellent

Wear: Cracks on the side of the head and the abdomen which are consistent with age and use. Piece is structurally sound. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions:

Carved Piece: 15 in. H X 3 in. W X 3.75 in. D 

Base: 4 in. X 4 in. W X 1 in. H / Total: 16 in. H

Reference: Baule Male ancestor carvings can be found in the permanent collections at The British Museum and The Met.