Polychrome mahogany wood sculpture, representing a 'Blolo Bian', a Baoulé spiritual figure from the mid-20th century.

'Blolo Bian' Baoulé figure

Ivory Coast · Baoulé ethnicity

Impressive androgynous figure carved and polychromed in red, black and white, a symbol of harmony and wisdom in Baoulé culture.

It features an upright posture on a circular pedestal, marked scarifications, and details of a mask and hat that reinforce its spiritual role. The budding breasts and the barely suggested male sex highlight its border with hermaphroditism, a frequent characteristic in African art.

It is an exceptional piece as a guide and protector of the community.

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Description

Carved and polychrome wooden figure. In Baoulé culture, this type of divinity or protective figure is known as "Blolo Bian," considered an intermediary between the earthly and spiritual worlds, symbolizing harmony and wisdom. It presents completely androgynous characteristics, with a barely suggested male sex and incipient breasts that place it on the verge of hermaphroditism. Very common in African statuary.
He is depicted standing, naked, with well-defined muscular legs and wide feet on an integrated circular pedestal. His breasts are erect and his arms are slightly bent towards his prominent abdomen and navel. He is polychrome-painted in red, symbolizing vitality and energy, with black details and, to a lesser extent, white. Scarifications cover his entire body, marked in black, and he has the typical Baulé hairstyle. He is shown wearing a mask and a small black hat, suggesting he is a spiritual guide and protector of the community.

Condition: Good state of preservation, with most of its original polychrome (small detachments in very specific areas).

"BLOLO BIAN" FIGURE, BAOULÉ
Ivory Coast. Mid-20th century.

Restoration status

It retains most of its original polychrome, showing only small detachments in very specific areas; in general, it is in good condition.

Historical context

Originating from the Baoulé ethnic group of Ivory Coast and dating from the mid-20th century, this figure embodies the belief in intermediaries between the earthly and spiritual worlds. The 'Blolo Bian' were conceived as protective and wise figures, indispensable in Baoulé social and religious life. Their androgynous iconography and rich polychrome reflect concepts of fertility and vital energy, as well as the complexity of spiritual identity in West Africa.