Baule (Baoule, Bawule) Côte d’Ivoire

Figure of the ape god Gbekre.(?) Around 1 million Baule occupy a part of the eastern Cote d’Ivoire that is both forest and savanna land. The Baule is one of the rare tribes where sculpture is produced for aesthetic appreciation as well as for ritualistic purposes. The gbekre figures are different in style of other Baule sculptures. They combine human and animal traits in such a way that it is nearly impossible to separate them. The monkey figure symbolizes the son of the god of heaven (ape god), his role being to receive offerings for this deity, usually in relation to agricultural activity. Besides, they are used for many different cults, for a trance divination cult among them.

Material:  wood

Size: 24”x10½”x10”

Price:   $280+$47 (S&H)                                                             [#U7BAS750]