Maternity Figure, Dan Basa, Ivory Coast

Maternity Figure, Dan Basa, Ivory Coast
African Tribal Art: Dan Basa People, Ivory Coast: Maternity Figure, Late 19th/Early 20th Century. Carved wood with a smooth dark patina, natural woven fiber, wrought iron bracelets.

The importance of this figure is suggested by its pose, seated on the front edge of a large chair. Combined with the carefully incised coiffure and beautiful scarification, the sculptor shows us that the woman is a person with prestige and power.