Dimensions and Weight:
- Weight: 0.295 kg
- Height: 37 cm
- Width: 7.5 cm
- Depth: 7 cm
This statuette is a representation of Baoulé motherhood, a major ethnic group in Côte d'Ivoire. The Baoulé are known for their rich artistic tradition and elaborate sculptures, often associated with complex spiritual beliefs and practices.
Characteristics and Significance
Materials and Construction: Baoulé sculptures are typically made from wood, often polished to achieve a smooth and shiny surface. This statuette features a dark, smooth finish with well-defined features.
Function and Use: Baoulé maternity statuettes, known as "Blolo Bla" (female spirit) or "Blolo Bian" (male spirit), are used in the worship of joint spirits, which are protective spiritual figures residing in the parallel world of "blolo" (the afterlife). These statuettes are often consulted for guidance, protection, and blessings.
Aesthetics and Symbolism: Baoulé maternity statues typically depict women in a carrying position, symbolizing fertility, motherhood, and parental care. The facial features are usually detailed with serene expressions, reflecting the ideals of beauty and tranquility in Baoulé culture. Body scarifications, accessories like necklaces, and elaborate hairstyles are also distinctive elements.
Cultural Role: Beyond their religious function, these sculptures are works of art that showcase the skill of Baoulé sculptors and the importance of motherhood and family in their society. They also embody the values of protection and continuity of family lineages.
Historical Context
The Baoulé have a long tradition of sculpture, influenced by their animistic beliefs and spiritual practices. These sculptures play a central role in rituals and ceremonies, and they are also used as intermediaries between the living and the spirits of ancestors.
Conservation and Heritage
Baoulé sculptures, including maternity statuettes, are prized in museums and private collections around the world. They are recognized not only for their aesthetic value but also for their deep cultural and spiritual significance.
In summary, the Baoulé maternity statuette from Côte d'Ivoire is a work of art rich in history and symbolism, representing the spiritual beliefs and cultural values of the Baoulé people. It embodies fertility, protection, and the importance of family in this West African society.
300.00 €
