Ewe bocio figures, Ghana and Togo
6” tall
ex private US collection
The figures carved for Vodun are sold in marketplaces and are completely powerless at that stage – merely empty receptacles for a spirit or power that only the ritualist can add. In traditional use, figures such as this with rolls of rope, and often other materials, around them acted to ‘binding a spirit in’ and were quite benevolent. These forces can be harnessed to provide protection to a household or community, used to keep away witches and criminals, used to manipulate the weather, harnessed to maintain crops, or harnessed to promote health and wellbeing. In essence, vodun are believed to be responsible for maintaining order and ensuring harmony.
SOLD $150
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