Baule Blolo or Spirit Spouse Figure

A soldier, helmeted, pack on his back, rifle across his chest. He is also, in the Baule view, a spouse.

This blolo figure was carved in Ivory Coast in the 20th century and stands nearly sixteen inches tall. Spirit spouses were often shown in the dress of the day, and uniformed figures like this one reflect the colonial period, when the soldier was a familiar image of rank and power. He leans into a firm stride, with chevrons on the sleeve and straps crossing the shoulders. The face has large ears and an alert expression. A dark brown patina covers the wood, lighter where hands have rubbed the high points.

Attention, please.