The Fanti are part of the Akan group of ethnicities
of Ghana, who all have matrilinear lineages. The majority of their
sculpture reflects their concern with fertility and children, and
they are known best for their fertility dolls and maternity figures.
Many Akan peoples make no great distinctions between Akuaba
fertility images and figures of different configuaration, size or
material. Most figures are called Akuaba; there are also many
small figures without "classic" Akuaba form but which are
nevertheless used in identical or analogous situations.Their shrine
sculptures are almost always female. All shrines are concerned
either directly or indirectly with human fertility. Among the smaller
sculptures is a chalk-whitened one which recalls the common
practice of affecting powder-white skins for special days of worship
and festivals to show reverence and devotion. Many cult images
are similarly painted white. Standing female sculptures are
sometimes carved with a child, but more commonly without. The
standing female icon common in West African sculpture has various
interpretations. In this example poise, dignity, and stability are the
keynotes.
Dimensions: 15" height x 2 1/2" width x 2" depth
