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African & Tribal Art :
Anyi, Attye, Lagoons Region : Anyi Wooden Sculpture of a Seated Woman
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Anyi Wooden Sculpture of a Seated Woman - PF.6311
Origin: Eastern Ivory Coast
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
20" (50.8cm) high
Collection: African
Medium: Wood
$4,800.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
Seated upon a stool, the foremost symbol of
royal authority in Africa, this sculpture most
likely represents a queen mother. Her
fantastically styled coiffure with large central
crest and braided tail in the back reflects her
high-ranking status and overwhelming beauty.
Furthermore, the raised scarifications that cover
her face and body are considered both
prestigious marks of rank as well as symbols of
her sexual desirability. Certain specific scars are
indicative of the Anyi people and would identify
her as a part of this tribe. Clearly, this woman is
a person of noble rank who held an esteemed
role within her society, reinforced by her
necklace that has been colored red. Most Likely,
this sculpture was commissioned by her relatives
after she passed away to commemorate her life.
The art of the Anyi tribe is heavily indebted to
the style of their neighbors, the Baule. Like the
Baule, the Anyi people believed that the spirits
of the deceased continued to play an active role
in the life of their descendants. By creating
memorial sculptures and presenting it with
proper sacrifices and libations, the relatives of
the deceased could influence the favor of the
spirit. Judging by the beauty and social position
of this woman, there is no doubt that she would
have continued to play a major role within
society even after her bodily departure. Seated
upon her royal throne, she continues to look
down upon us her subjects from the next world.
Through our worship and reverence, her powers
are maintained if not heightened. From beyond
the grave, she rules with benevolent grace and
dignity, altering the course of our lives and the
path of the tribe.
- (PF.6311)
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