Ivory Coast, West Africa

13.5 inches, wood

 A man has an "other world woman" referred to as blolo bla, and a woman has an "other world man" referred to as blolo bian. This female spirit figure expresses Baule ideas of physical beauty and moral virtue. The erect bearing indicates a morally upright person. The hands held obediently at the sides and the modest stance of the feet give the figure a respectful attitude that shows good character. Physical perfection is shown in the healthy body, the strong neck able to bear heavy loads on the head and the muscular calves of the hard worker.