(1) - Legno - baoulé - Iniziazione fetish - Africa Occidentale

This Baoulé fetish statuette represents the spirit of nature its posture and crusted patina make it possible to determine that it is an initiation fetish.
The Baule are one of the most important ethnic groups of the Ivory Coast. Their name reflects their origin: according to a legend, Queen Abla Pokou led her people in exodus to the gold mine regions, during the 18th century; she had to sacrifice her son to the god of a river, in order for them to be able to cross it. The people were therefore named the "Bauli", meaning "the son is dead".