Baule Colon image of a photographer - Ivory Coast

Description

Powerful Baule Colon sculpture from Côte d'Ivoire, depicting a photographer with camera and briefcase. A colourful and characterful representation of the colonial period, combining traditional Baule woodcutting with modern influences.

Origin & meaning
This sculpture is part of the so-called 'Colon' art, created in the early 20th century in West Africa. Sculptures like this show African craft intertwined with European influences: suits, hats and Western professions are depicted in a humorous and expressive way. This particular specimen depicts a photographer, complete with camera and briefcase - a rarer profession within the Colon tradition. Its vibrant colours and powerful appearance make it an intriguing collector's item.

Dimensions & condition
Height 33 cm, width 7.5 cm, depth 4.5 cm. The statue is in good condition with slight signs of age and use befitting its age. Hand-carved and painted in traditional Baule style.