This figure is a splendid example of the
uncommon Kulango statuary. The figure bears
the rounded, ovular facial contour with a pointed
chin characteristic of Kulango art while the
figure’s posture and execution reveals the
influence of their neighboring tribes including
the Akan and the Baule. The woman stands with
her legs apart, knees slightly bent, and rests her
hands along side her body. This stance is related
to similar Baule sculptures and can also be seen
in the famous Ashanti Akua’ba fertility dolls
rendered in the later representational style. Her
segmented, bulbous arms and hands are also
typical of Kulango works. Perhaps the most
striking feature of this gorgeous woman is the
fantastic keloid scarification that covers her face,
neck, and body. Such scarification was
considered to be both marks of beauty as well as
prestige. Certain scars, like the line running
across the sides of her neck, would have
identified this woman as belonging to the
Kulango tribe. Her elaborate coiffure has been
styled into a central crest surrounded by conical
nodules. Considering the time involved in
braiding and arranging such a hairstyle, such
coiffures indicate that she belongs to the elite
class, for laborers did not have enough time to
pamper themselves. Based on her large
elongated breasts and prominent buttocks, it is
clear that she is a fertility figure representing the
epitome of female beauty as interpreted by the
Kulango tribe.
- (X.1006)
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