Baule Male Figure Spirit Statue OLD African Sculpture

A Fine Old Baule Baoule Blolo Bian Figure Male Other World Spirit Statue
Antique African Art - Tribal Sculpture - Cote d'Ivoire

Collected from the: Baule Baoule peoples of Cote d'Ivoire, West Africa
Material: Carved wood, skin oil, fine encrustation
Period: Very early 20th century, conservatively
Dimensions: 18.5" height, 4" width, 6.5" depth; weight is 2.25 pounds
Condition: Exquisite, no damage or repair. From a private Houston collection, superb signs of age, wear, ritual libations and frequent handling/rubbing of extensive tribal use, tool marks and surface condition are appropriate for the early period. Make special note of the beautifully burnished skin oil patina along the high points of forehead, ears, nose, mouth, beard knob, outer shoulders and arms, buttocks, outer legs and base. Age, handling, wear and ritual "body rub" oiling culminated in a glorious patina that accentuates the serenity of this gorgeous carving. Surface and recesses display the anticipated accumulated residue of daily life along with fine encrustation of millet/egg ritual libations - this superior specimen is a very special treasure to behold !

Please to fully appreciate this impressive old spirit!