Artwork Page for Female Figure

Details / Information for Female Figure

Female Figure

c. 1940–1950

Africa, West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, Dan-style maker

Medium
wood
Measurements
Overall: 48.2 cm (19 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Katherine C. White 1971.295
Copyright
Copyright
This artwork is known to be under copyright.
Location
Not on view
Print

Description

The concept of tin—success and reputation—inspired individualism and competition among Dan warrior chiefs in the 1800s and fostered enormous artistic productivity and innovation. These wealthy individuals would commission various prestige items, including portraits of women to honor a favorite wife. At the appropriate dramatic moment during a lavish feast for his community, the chief would unveil the figure which had been carefully wrapped and covered in a basket. Other items might also be displayed and distributed to enhance the host's reputation and to demonstrate his good taste and generosity.

Female Figure

c. 1940–1950

Africa, West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, Dan-style maker

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