Description:

West Africa, Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivoire), Baule culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A carved standing nude male figure known as a "Blolo Bian" or spirit spouse, posed upon an integral square base with arms resting on his abdomen and ritual scarification on his chest and face. The tall crested hairstyle and scarification mark him as a respected and industrious member of his community, while idealized features - such as a long neck and strong calves - symbolize inner moral qualities and integrity. Blolo Bian figures were placed in the home and attentively cared for as connections to the spirit world. Also known as "Dream Lovers," these figures were believed to visit the living in dreams, serving as oracles capable of foretelling the future or serving as otherworldly spouses. Size: 2.5" L x 2.5" W x 12.2" H (6.4 cm x 6.4 cm x 31 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-PB Eighty-Four Gallery, May 22, 1980, lot 162

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#190200

  • Condition: Minor abrasions, but otherwise intact and excellent. Nice remains of mineral and white pigment encrustations on the face.

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January 23, 2025 8:00 AM MST
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$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000