Baule Blolo or Spirit Spouse

Hands in pockets, sandals on, the most relaxed figure in the room.

This wooden blolo was carved by Baule artists of the Ivory Coast, West Africa, in the 20th century. Figures of this type are often described as spirit partners, and some are carved in the clothing of the day, which gives them a modern, almost portrait-like air. He wears a pale grey collared shirt and dark grey shorts, both hands pushed into the pockets. The face and legs are red, and the feet sit in painted sandals on a rounded base.

About fourteen inches tall. Weekend wear, carved to last.