Baule Colon image of a doctor - Ivory Coast

Description

Unique Baule Colon statue of a doctor from Ivory Coast, with powerful character and symbolic details.

This hand-carved wooden sculpture shows a doctor in long white coat, complete with stethoscope and red cross marker. The piece is part of the colourful Colon image tradition of de Baule, in which African sculptors mixed Western influences with local aesthetics. These sculptures often refer to professions and social status and are loved by collectors of modern and tribal art.

Origin & meaning
The Baule from Ivory Coast developed the so-called Colon figures in the 20th century, in which they playfully and ironically depicted European influences. The profession depicted - here a doctor - emphasises the role of knowledge, medicine and status within the community. The striking long white coat and accessories make this image particularly recognisable and typical of this genre.

Dimensions
Height: 32.5 cm
Width: 4.5 cm
Depth: 4 cm
Condition: with signs of age, paint wear and minor signs of use appropriate to age.