Vintage Baule Horned Female Spirit Figure (Côte d'Ivoire)

Specifications
Item Type: Carved Wooden Spirit Figure (Blolo Bla / Asie Usu)
Ethnic Group: Baule (Baoulé)
Country of Origin: Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)
Material: Carved Hardwood
Height: 31 cm
Notable Features: Finely carved horned/crested coiffure, intricate torso and facial scarification, hands resting on abdomen, earthy patina.

About this piece:
Elevate your African art collection with this incredibly detailed, hand-carved Baule Female Spirit Figure. Originating from the Baule people of Côte d'Ivoire, this 31 cm wooden sculpture perfectly captures the spiritual depth and aesthetic ideals of West African artistry.
This captivating piece is defined by its striking features: a beautifully detailed coiffure flanked by curved, horn-like elements, and extensive traditional raised scarification (grids and dots) across the abdomen, chest, and face. In Baule culture, these figures serve as physical receptacles for spirits—either a protective spirit spouse (Blolo Bla) or a powerful nature spirit (Asie Usu). The hands resting on the stomach symbolize inner peace, fertility, and ancestral lineage.
Boasting a crusty, weathered patina that points to historical ritual use, this statue stands as a true cultural artifact. It is a phenomenal statement piece for serious collectors of tribal art, ethnography enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique historical decor item.