Standing male figure "blolo bian" ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Baoulé · ID: 3040492

Description

wood, encrusted brown patina, traces of black paint, typical posture, face, neck and body adorned with delicate skin scarifications, slightly dam., cracks, abrasion of paint, base;
in addition to the realms of the village (culture) and the bush (nature), the Baule also believe in a far-off place that they call “blolo”. It is a place where each person has a partner of the opposite sex. A woman has an “Other World man” - “blolo bian” - , a man has an “Other World woman” - " blolo bla". In order to ingratiate himself with this spirit, a person has an effigy made which will become its dwelling place. This is why the sculpture takes the form of the ideal physical specimen and includes the subtle embellishments found in life: charming curves, fine scarifications, and a glowing skin. With the help of fortunetellers, these “blolo” figurines can intervene in difficult situations or in crises in relationships.