Baule statue with gourd and dagger - Ivory Coast - 54 cm

Description

Striking Baule statue from Ivory Coast measuring 54 cm, holding a gourd and dagger - a ritual portrait of justice and protection.

Origin & meaning: In the Baule tradition, the gourd symbolises fertility and wealth, while the dagger represents justice and protection. Figures like these were possibly used in ceremonial contexts, where the object held embodied the intrinsic character of the person portrayed (such as justice or protection). This image is in the tradition of spiritual representations, offering aesthetic and cultural layers in one powerful appearance.

Size & condition: Height 54 cm, reflects its imposing size and ritual presence.
Condition: The statue possesses a rich, natural patina with glossy wear on pronounced parts (arms, knees, dagger), the wood structure is predominantly solid with a few small hairlines/tears in the wood and mild use at the edges; the gourd decoration and dagger are fully present and well preserved.