An exceptional anthropomorphic ancestor figure, a masterpiece from the Baoulé people (Ivory Coast).
This monumental sculpture, representing a Waka Sona ("wooden being"), commands attention with its stature and serene elegance. Far from a simple statuette, this 63 cm tall work embodies the classic canons of Baoulé statuary: a dignified posture, a finely sculpted hairstyle, and exquisitely detailed traditional scarification.
The work on the face, combining serenity and mysticism, testifies to the hand of a master sculptor. It is a prestigious piece designed to captivate the viewer and command attention.
Provenance and History: This work possesses a genuine material history. It was acquired in the mid-1990s from an antique dealer in Dakar, Senegal, a major historical hub of the African art market in the 20th century.
Condition and Authenticity:
Wood: Carved from a fine, dense, and fine-grained hardwood.
Patina: Deep, dark brown patina from age and use, bearing witness to many years of rituals and handling.
Marks of Time: The object exhibits a deep, naturally stabilized desiccation crack, as well as old, fully patinated galleries of tropical wood-boring insects (absolute proof of its authenticity and age). Its condition is now perfectly sound and stable.
Dimensions & Weight:
Height: 63 cm
Weight: 2,055 grams
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsBeige, BrownMaterialWoodNumber of items1OrientationSquareArt sizeMediumHeight63 cmWidth63 cmDepth63 cm