Maternité · Côte d'Ivoire, Baule · ID: 3046544
Sotheby’s London, 3 July 1961, lot 128
Gunther Bloch (1916-2004), London, Great Britain
Zemanek-Münster, 9 March 2013, Lot 291
Description
wood, rich blackish-brown patina, oiled, brass inlay, kaolin, glass beads,
A maternité from the same workshop was auctioned at Zemanek-Münster on March 3, 2012 (see AHDRC 0057295). Another figure from the Tishman Collection, pictured at Vogel (New York 1981), p. 74, ill. 36. All three figures can be assigned to the “Agba Circle” (1920-1950s).
The emphasis on scarification is characteristic of this workshop and frequently found on figures made in the early 20th century. Even the open eye with parted upper and lower lids is a feature largely of this century in Baule art.
The figure captivates by its mannerism. The overlong breast draws the observers attention to the act of suckling.
Comparing literature
Vogel, Susan, For spirits and kings, African Art from the Paul and Ruth Tishman Collection, New York 1981, p. 74, ill. 36
Publications
AHDRC: 0057273