Description:

West Africa, Ivory Coast (Cote d'Ivoire), Baule culture, ca. mid to late 20th century CE. A carved standing nude male figure known as a "Blolo Bian" or spirit spouse, set upon an integral square base with arms resting on his abdomen and ritual scarification on his face and neck. A seed bead necklace adorns his neck. The idealized features, such as a long neck and strong calves, symbolize moral integrity, while the scarification marks him as a respected and industrious member of his community. Blolo Bian figures were placed in the home and cared for as links to the spirit world. Also known as "Dream Lovers," these figures were believed to visit the living in dreams, serving as oracles who could foretell the future or act as otherworldly spouses. Size: 3" L x 2.5" W x 13.75" H (7.6 cm x 6.4 cm x 34.9 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Rod Rogers collection, Merrick, New York, USA

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#190199

  • Condition: Large stable pressure fissure radiating from the right side of head, and another to the body as shown. Mineral encrustations in recessed areas.

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November 22, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$300 $999 $50
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$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