Wooden Baule Ancestor Figure c.1980-1990
Wooden ancestor figure, likely originating from the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa.
Slightly tilted, perfectly imperfect.
17cm x 32cm
Baule ancestor figures, created by the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), are deeply significant sculptures that honor ancestors and connect the living to the spiritual realm. These wooden carvings, often called Blolo Bla (spirit wife) or Blolo Bian (spirit husband), reflect the Baule belief in the influence of spiritual beings on earthly life.
The figures typically depict idealized human forms, characterized by serene expressions, intricate hairstyles, and detailed body ornamentation, emphasizing beauty and dignity. They are used in private rituals and ceremonies to seek guidance, protection, or blessings from the spirits. The figures also serve as a means of maintaining balance and harmony, as they are believed to mediate between the physical world and the spiritual domain.
Wooden ancestor figure, likely originating from the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa.
Slightly tilted, perfectly imperfect.
17cm x 32cm
Baule ancestor figures, created by the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), are deeply significant sculptures that honor ancestors and connect the living to the spiritual realm. These wooden carvings, often called Blolo Bla (spirit wife) or Blolo Bian (spirit husband), reflect the Baule belief in the influence of spiritual beings on earthly life.
The figures typically depict idealized human forms, characterized by serene expressions, intricate hairstyles, and detailed body ornamentation, emphasizing beauty and dignity. They are used in private rituals and ceremonies to seek guidance, protection, or blessings from the spirits. The figures also serve as a means of maintaining balance and harmony, as they are believed to mediate between the physical world and the spiritual domain.
Wooden ancestor figure, likely originating from the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa.
Slightly tilted, perfectly imperfect.
17cm x 32cm
Baule ancestor figures, created by the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), are deeply significant sculptures that honor ancestors and connect the living to the spiritual realm. These wooden carvings, often called Blolo Bla (spirit wife) or Blolo Bian (spirit husband), reflect the Baule belief in the influence of spiritual beings on earthly life.
The figures typically depict idealized human forms, characterized by serene expressions, intricate hairstyles, and detailed body ornamentation, emphasizing beauty and dignity. They are used in private rituals and ceremonies to seek guidance, protection, or blessings from the spirits. The figures also serve as a means of maintaining balance and harmony, as they are believed to mediate between the physical world and the spiritual domain.