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Baule Spirit Spouse with Beautiful Patina
In her book Baule: African Art, Western Eyes, Susan Vogel describes spirit spouse figures such as this male as “exemplifying the security and pleasures of life” within a Baule village. These comforts are evident in the smooth, clean patina of the figure, signifying the luxuries of bathing and eating one’s fill. The body scarification, peaked coiffure and upright stature further indicate the honor, health and wellness the Baule associate with spirit spouse figures. A gold nail in this male’s forehead is evidence of the carving’s sanctity. Ex 1950s New York City collection.
18″
