Baga ritual statuette — Baga, Guinea — African tribal art — Ref. 127

Description

Originating from the Baga people in Guinea, this sculpture represents a kneeling woman with her hands placed on her breasts in a gesture of offering or spiritual transmission. This posture symbolises fertility, prosperity and the sacred role of women in perpetuating lineage and ancestral traditions.

The absence of a child in this representation, unlike classical maternal figures, may suggest an invocation of fertility or a ritual posture linked to initiatory ceremonies. The carved details, notably the facial scarifications and gris-gris around the hips, reinforce its mystical character and probably cultic use.

Made from wood, this piece attests to ancestral craftsmanship, highlighting traditional Baga aesthetics with stylised features and a solemn expression. The patina indicates prolonged handling, suggesting ritual or domestic use within a spiritual setting.

Technical details

Type of piece

Statue

Category

Statues

Ethnic group

Baga

Country

Guinée

Materials

wood

Dimensions

H 32 × W 13 × D 13 cm

Weight

0,8 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

127