Baule Mbra monkey figure, Ivory Coast
wood, pigment, cloth, metal
26" tall
this object is being sold on consignment from a private collection, TX
$175
The Baule have monkey figures commonly used for the "Mbra" cult that more or less resemble each other. Endowed with prognathic jaw and
sharp teeth and a granular patina resulting from sacrifices, the monkey holds a bowl or a pestle in its paws that was used to hold an egg.
Sources differ on its role or function: some say it intervenes in the ritual of divination, others that it is a protection against sorcerers, or a
protective divinity of agrarian rites, or a bush spirit. Owned only by trance diviners and certain families, the figure resides hidden outside under a
shelter. The sculpture is said to feed on sacrifices brought from the bush and poured all over the figure, leaving it filthy and encrusted.
Sources: A History of Art in Africa and Africa and Africa - The Art of A Continent
Despite its appearance, this object shows no signs of real age or use and it is my opinion this object was made specifically for the collecting
market.
Suggested reading: My favorite book on Baule art is Susan Vogels "BAULE: African Art Western Eyes".
Additional information and examples can be seen on the Baule monkey page on Rand African Art.
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