Baule Blolo or Spirit Spouse

Seated, one fist raised, as if about to make a point.

This unusual seated figure was carved in wood by Baule artists of the Ivory Coast, West Africa, in the 20th century. As a blolo, or spirit spouse, it departs from the usual standing pose. She wears a long cream dress with a dark scalloped collar, and one hand is lifted in a loose fist while the other rests on her lap. The face is pink with a slightly open mouth, and she sits on a small block.

About twelve inches tall. A conversation piece that has already started talking.