Baule Blolo or Spirit Spouse Figure

Polka dots. A red torso spotted in black, and trousers dotted in white. Spirit worlds, it seems, are not solemn.

This twelve-inch Baule figure from Ivory Coast was made in the 20th century, in a long tradition of carving a figure to honor a person’s partner in the spirit world and keeping it close in the private part of the house. A white beaded necklace with a pendant is painted at the chest. Red shoes. A flat black coiffure, arched brows, white-rimmed eyes. The base is round and worn.

Dressed to be noticed, and noticed it will be.