Pair Of Baoulé Statues From Ivory Coast

Superb pair of statues representing a blolo bian man (brother or husband from the afterlife) in hardwood with a very beautiful deep shiny patina of use and crusty in places and a blolo bla woman (Sister or wife from the afterlife) with an identical patina, height 36 cm. and 39cmMale effigy with pronounced attributes, very well balanced, as well as the female statueWear due to pronounced use which almost gives an erasure of the relief giving way to a strong shine.The legs are bent according to the usual canons.The busts are powerful with arms spread with sculpted bracelets and armbands.Scarifications on the torsos and backs as well as on the necks, cheeks and around the lips.Very elaborate headdresses with beard attachment on the side for the man (as dignitaries often do).The pleasant proportions of the statues, the beautiful serenity emanating from the faces are the marks of a Great and Master sculptor.The patina, both shiny and crusty in places, are the signs of the care lavished on these spouses from the other world.The important headdresses suggest the great importance of the characters represented (Chief, King or queen and or Great Dignitaries).Significant wear from use on the faces proving heavy manipulation over the years. The circular eyes and barely sketched mouths suggest a certain introspection. The man's base has been reattached and the woman's beaver tail headdress has been reattached. Otherwise, very good condition. Free worldwide shipping.