Baule Seated Female Figure As Hook Handle

A figure sits on top of a hook, which is a fine place to keep an eye on things.

This seated female figure as hook handle is Baule, from Ivory Coast, West Africa, and dates to the 20th century. It is forged metal. Hooks with figural handles are found in several West African traditions, and the figures are generally decorative as well as practical. A small woman sits with one leg raised, her hands resting on her torso, facing sideways with a small, composed face. Below, a ringed shaft curves into a hook with a coiled end. A steel stand holds it upright. It is 1 inch wide and deep and 3 high.

Neatly seated, with a good view of the hook.