AFRICAN ASHANTI, GHANA AN ‘AKUABA’ FERTILITY DOLL

AFRICAN ASHANTI, GHANA AN ‘AKUABA’ FERTILITY DOLL

The fertility doll is a typical ‘Akuaba doll’ carved from light-colored, lightweight wood in traditional form and dyed dark brown. It has a large round head with splayed eyebrows and small narrow coffee bean eyes. A characteristic chip-carving relief and an accentuated back line are visible on the reverse. The neck displays notched rings and further scarification marks are recognizable across the chest and on the abdomen. On exposed areas such as the nose, the end of the short protruding arms, the breasts and the accentuated navel, the present ‘Akuaba’ figure displays some traces of wear as a result of protracted use. Provenance: Collection of Edward Frey, the author of The Kris: Mystic Weapon of the Malay World (Images of Asia).

Dimensions : Height: 15 5/8 in. (40 cm.) including base
Condition : Very good with good patina.