Baule figure, Ivory Coast
11.5 inches
wood, pigment
mid 20th century
ex private US collection / ex Matthew Peppin, US
$500 plus shipping
A very nice Balue figure, most likely a blolo bian (spirit husband). Figures from this specific carver generally all have similar aesthetic qualities to them, but this figure has the most elaborate coiffure that I’ve seen from the carver. An identifying mark from this carver is his unusual representation of the mouth where it appears to be open. There is generally a lot of detail around the eyes as well, and this figure has intricately carved raised sections at the bottom of the eye lids. Figures from this carver are also generally fairly short and thick with large legs and hips, and also the unique hands bent at the knuckle and carved with fingernails. The feet are also fairly consistent with this carver depicted with longer toes and showing the joints. What initially drew me to this figure, and it’s what I like about it so much, is the coiffure which I think is incredible.
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