Mossi Biiga or Doll / Fertility Figure, Based

Dress it, carry it, look after it. Mossi girls were taught the routine early.

The biiga, a small doll carved in Burkina Faso in the 20th century, was given to be tended much as an infant would be, and it is closely tied to hopes for fertility and future motherhood. This one stands about eight and a quarter inches tall on a slender cylindrical body, with small projecting breasts and a flared foot.

The fan-shaped crest of the head is incised with fine chevrons and a central triangle. The deep brown wood has a smooth, handled sheen, and a small age crack runs at the base.

Practice for the future. Patience included.