Description:

Africa, Ivory Coast, Baule, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A finely carved and painted standing wooden female figure created by a Baule artisan of West Africa. Such a figure is known as a "Blolo Bian" - an ancestral sculpture that would be placed in the home, looked after and attentively cared for, as such special figures are believed to act as a medium to the spirit world. Figures like this example are also called Dream Lovers, because they are believed to visit the living in their dreams and may serve as an Oracle who can predict the future or act as a dream lover. This example boasts a finely incised coiffure with a multi-lobed front section, scarification marks on her face, breasts, abdomen, and back of her nude body, pronounced breasts, an "outie" navel outlined in white, and skillfully delineated bold facial features with added white kaolin pigment that creates an expressive countenance. Size: 12.875" H (32.7 cm)

Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos collection, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired before 1970

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#113778

  • Condition: Age cracks to head and body as shown. Base probably repaired from three pieces. Beautiful rich, dark patina.

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March 1, 2018 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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