Standing male figure "asie usu"

Description

wood, glass beads, plant fibre cord, strongly encrusted sacrificial patina, base

When not in use, “asie usu” figures are stored in the homes of “komien” diviners, on “bo osu” shrines, where sacrifices and offerings are made to the spirits.

It is believed that bush spirits reside in “asie usu” figures. During consultations with clients, Baule diviners make use of these figures to form a link between the physical world and the spiritual. To understand the cause of problems or misfortunes faced by clients, the “komien” places an “asie usu” figure between himself and the client. Through incantations, the “komien” becomes possessed by the spirit residing in the figure, and this trance makes it clear to the diviner what the issues are, how they can be solved and what the future holds for his client.

Publications

AHDRC: 0153578