If the spiritual spouse is neglected, or if a Baule believes that it is displeased with him, an altar must be set up to make offerings to appease the angry spirit.
These offerings include the sculpted portrait of the spouse of the beyond & they are carried around everywhere they go.
The beauty of the figures is an integral part of their function. The statues are oiled, clothed & sometimes decorated with jewelry.
Ex. Leonard Kahan Gallery, New York and ex. Christopher and Genevieve McConnell collection.
Height: 16 ⅜”
Height including base: 17 ˝"
Width: 4 ˝”
Depth: 3 ⅝"
Please note, the right hand is missing, and there is a lot of wear and tear on this piece, and as such it is being sold as is.