Standing female figure "tugubele" ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Senufo · ID: 3035600

Description

wood, encrusted greyish brown patina, characteristic features: the elongated slender body, hanging arms, the accentuation of the gender and the hands especially referring to it, the big head with boat-like coiffure, unusual: the shield-shaped breast ornament, slightly dam. (left ear and hand, nose), minor missing parts (both feet), exfoliation of paint, rep. (buttocks), socle;
“Tugubele” are creatures of the wild. They are said to be good friends with humans and animals as well and act as an intermediate between them. When a tree has to be cut down their living space is violated and they require sacrifices in return. They want their existence to be accepted. Therefore two figures have to be carved, because like humans they live in a community, they are dwarf-like small and of human shape.