This is a very handsome wood sculpture from the Baule peoples of the Ivory Coast of west Africa. carved wooden male image with carved raised tribal tattoos and finely incised coiffure. The male sculpture stands proudly with hands on the abdomen and protruding navel. Spirit spouse sculptures can be seen as a kind of opposite sex alter ego and are a fascinating case of the use of art in Africa for individual psychological relief. The Baule are one of a number of African groups who believe that before birth, human beings all had Blolo bla (spirit wife) and Blolo bian (spirit husband) spouses in the other world who can influence their lives. The sculpture measures 13 inches tall.

Overall Good condition