Asie-usu Baoulé Ivory Coast Former Raoul Lehuard Collection

Superb Baoulé sculpture from Ivory Coast measuring 37.5cm high plus 42.5cm base Small holes at the base otherwise perfect condition Beautiful shiny patina in places Statue of rare finesse (true masterpiece) A great serinity emanates from the face of this character seated on a throne who is the representative of a high dignitary (Tribal chief or other) By scrutinizing the details one can admire the great mastery of the sculptor Old and authentic. Beautiful patina. Heavy wood.
The statuettes known as ASIE USU are designed to serve as receptacles for nature spirits. These spirits or genies generally live in the bush near watering holes and trees. Unpredictable and mischievous, they can interfere in human lives at any time and cause all sorts of harm.They are generally kept on an altar or in a corner of a room with other ritual objects constituting the diviner-healer's officiating equipment.Particularly rare, the position of the figure, seated on a seat, underlines the importance of this element, considered the sacred altar of the ancestors among the Baoulé.During divination sessions, the statuette is placed on the ground and generally covered with a cloth. The diviner uses a gong and a small lawle hammer to invite the spirits to manifest themselves, before entering a trance state himself.Signs of PowerThe slight plumpness in the abdomen is synonymous with wealth and high social status. The figure strokes his long, braided beard, a meditative image evoking introspection, wisdom, and dignity. It is a representation of the small akenza kpli goatee worn by notables. The scarifications, particularly on the figure's shoulders and neck, are a mark of beauty.
The quality of execution, the finesse, the elegance of this statue suggest that it is a true masterpiece of a Master sculptor. Quality base (Inagaki?) Provenance: Personal collection of Raoul LEHUARD
free shipping