Rare Baule Male Spirit Figure (Blolo Bian) — Early 20th Century

Rare Baule Male Spirit Figure (Blolo Bian) — Early 20th CenturyOrigin: Baule people, Côte d’IvoirePeriod: Early 20th century (circa 1900–1930)Material: Hardwood with dark ritual patinaMounted on a custom made wooden baseDimensions: with base 26.5 cm, statue 24 cmProvenance: private Portugese collection - private German collection - private Belgian collectionDescription:This finely carved male figure, known as a Blolo Bian (spirit husband), originates from the Baule people of central Côte d'Ivoire. Created in the early 20th century, this sculpture was intended as a personal altar object used in spiritual communication with the "other world"—a central tenet in Baule cosmology.The figure exhibits the hallmarks of classic Baule artistry: a poised, symmetrical stance; a serene, introspective expression with downcast almond-shaped eyes; finely incised coiffure; and delicate facial and body scarification marks. The hands rest gently on the abdomen—a motif often associated with introspection, fertility, and spiritual presence.A rich, dark patina, enhanced through years of ritual handling and anointing, testifies to the figure’s authenticity and prolonged devotional use. The wear and subtle surface variations confirm its age and cultural significance.These spirit spouse figures were kept privately, consulted in dreams, and honored in ritual acts to maintain harmony in the owner’s life. Each was custom-carved by a master sculptor to match the vision or dream-revealed features of the spirit partner.Condition:Excellent condition for its age, with minor wear consistent with ritual use. No restoration detected. Wood is stable. Base included for display.Significance:This is an outstanding and rare example of a genuine early 20th-century Baule Blolo Bian — refined, spiritually potent, and deeply representative of Baule artistic traditions. Comparable pieces are found in the collections of the Musée du quai Branly (Paris), the Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York), and the British Museum (London).