Click Here for New Arrivals! Please note that this selection is darker than it appears here. See additional photos below. Click this photo for rotation and enlargement. The Baule pronounced (BOUGH-lay) represent one of the largest ethic groups of the Ivory Coast. The one million or so Baule are associated with the Akan. Baule history contends that during the eighteenth century, the queen, Abla Poku, led her people west to the land of the Senufo, wherein they came upon a river. In order for her people to cross she had to sacrifice her own son. This sacrifice is the origin of the name Baule, which translates to "the child has died." The Baule regime is matrilineal. Their society somewhat different from most in Africa, whereas they do not hold initiation or circumcision ceremonies, they do not have secret societies and everybody participates in tribal matters, including slaves. Art wise, all members of the Baule can create figure carvings. Sculptors do not inherit their profession, rather at some point in his life the individual has a dream or vision that instills in him a desire to become an artist. The selection on display is particularly well carved and of an investment grade quality. This wooden Queens Bust was created to act as a stand in during public ceremonies for the reigning queen when she, herself, could not be in attendance. The object was carried to festivity and placed wherever it was customary for the queen to be if she indeed was there. The selection displays the classic characteristics of Baule styling. The elongated slender nose connecting to a pair of arched intersecting brows creates a strong facial foundation. A wonderful symmetrical balance is formed with the placement of a well-positioned mouth and calm protruding eyes. The high forehead, minimal chin and double supple neck rolls all signify Baule female beauty. The oval-like face has obtained an aged smoothness as with the entire piece. As with other tribes the Baule artisan will pay special attention to the hair styling of a special piece. For it alludes to a persons societal stature and the higher the subjects tribal position the greater the care that must be given. Time itself could not take away the meticulous detailing that was given to this coiffeur. Hundreds of fine narrow incised hair strands are visible throughout the body of the four hair sections. The top crest and back hair bundle edges have been highlighted with pronounce double-ridged segmented strips. Rounded stylized ears hide behind the two jutting hair ends. The bust body shows the welcome signs of aging with missing areas of coloration and patina; revealing the bear wood. The right side of the face has acquired a wood crack that runs from the scalp to the chin. A natural occurrence due to aging that does not detract from its beauty or value. The buyer of this selection will have purchased a very fine example of Baule craftsmanship. Sold Please click the image for enlargement and rotation! See additional photos below. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message! Dimensions: 10 1/2 inches tall x 5 1/2 inches across x 5 1/2 inches deep. Wt: 5 lbs. **For a complete inventory listing please go to the 'Index' section on the Navigation Bar to your right** |
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