Mossi Biiga or Doll / Fertility Figure, Based

A bird-like profile, a hooked ear, and a body that runs smoothly into its base.

This Biiga or doll, a fertility figure, based, is Mossi, from Burkina Faso, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is carved wood. Mossi biiga dolls are generally made as small figures for girls, and they are often linked to fertility and the hope for children. This one has a rounded head with a feather pattern of incised lines and a long ear that hangs down on one side. A slim neck leads to a small, angular chest and a long, flaring column of a body. The wood has a warm, polished sheen. A black base supports it. It is 3 inches wide and deep and 8.9 high.

A profile that the sculptor clearly enjoyed.