Standing male figure

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Description

wood, black patina, schematized forms of body and face, carved with bracelets and necklace, striking hat of Sudanic origin, slightly dam., abrasion of paint, base;
the broad Sudanic hat identifies the figure as a champion cultivator “sambali”, a title given to those whose strength, perseverance and willingness to endure pain during countless hoeing contests have earned them the most prestigious honour a man can achieve. The figure would have belonged to a woman “sando” diviner as a luxury scupture, for praise the tutelary spirits strength and superior powers.

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Comparing literature

Barbier, Jean Paul (ed.), Art of Côte d' Ivoire, Vol II, Genève 1993, p. 26, ill. 23

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