Mossi Biiga or Doll / Fertility Figure, Based

Red flecks under a dark skin, like embers.

This biiga, or Mossi fertility doll, was made of wood and leather in Burkina Faso, West Africa, in the 20th century. Dolls of this kind are commonly associated with fertility and are often cared for as if they were children. A small head with a ridged, banded neck sits atop a thick, plain body. The surface is dark and crusty, with flecks of red showing through. A black plate holds it upright.

About 12 inches tall. Moody, compact and a little mysterious.