Standing female figure with ornamental comb ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Atié (Akye) or Baule · ID: 3041537

Description

wood, rich blackish brown patina, encrusted in parts, traces of kaolin, prominent eye zone with double arching eyebrows, round shoulders, short arms, slightly dam. (nose), missing parts (right hand, both foot tips), rep. (breakage at the comb), cracks, abrasion of paint, base;
the Akye, frequently called the Atié, are part of a larger group usually referred to as the Lagoon peoples of Côte d’Ivoire. The various groups share many characteristics, and their proximity to other populations has also led them to absorb outside influences. For example from the Baule they adopted the use of protective figures representing otherworld partners (“blolo bla/blolo bian”). Other anthropomorphic sculptures such as this one, are exhibited during dance performances. Yet it is impossible to ascertain the distinct function of a figure, since the context of use was not collected along with the object.

Comparing literature

Hellmich, Christina & Manuel Jordán, Embodiments, San Francisco 2015, p. 79