A Baule statue of a horseman, Daoukro region, Ivory Coast. This monoxyl wood sculpture depicts a high-ranking male figure riding a horse, a prestigious and rare motif in Baoulé statuary. The monumental hairstyle features the head crowned by an extremely elaborate traditional headdress, divided into several rounded braids textured with fine grooves, gathered into a large, lobed bun at the back. The serene face is perfectly oval, with a high forehead adorned with geometric scarifications in relief (notably three small dots on the forehead). Arched eyebrows frame almond-shaped, half-closed eyes, a long, slender nose, and a closed mouth of great delicacy. A beaded or carved protrusion extends below the chin, reminiscent of the prestigious adornments worn by chiefs. The long, cylindrical neck is entirely covered with raised scarification patterns imitating heavy ritual necklaces. A vertical line of keloid scarifications runs across the abdomen from the sternum to the navel. The upper part of his left arm is encircled by a wide armband carved with a highly detailed checkerboard pattern, while his wrists bear simpler bracelets. Both of her arms extend forward, her hands firmly gripping the reins or the animal’s mane to maintain her balance. The rider is mounted on a hybrid animal (resembling a horse or a donkey) with long, pointed ears standing upright. The mount’s head is lowered toward the ground in a walking posture. The rider’s short legs frame the animal’s flanks. The mount’s four stocky limbs merge into a solid, thick base that ensures the sculpture’s vertical stability. The entire work displays a mottled, oily dark brown patina, reflecting the rituals of anointing and the piece’s antiquity. The importance of equestrian figures in West Africa has a dual function. On the one hand, the horse is closely linked to the colonial rulers of the 19th century. Because the colonialists came from far away with their horses in good condition, the horse became a symbol of a good and safe journey. On the other hand, the horse was also a symbol of power. The colonial tax collectors usually came into the villages on horseback and with their exotic animals they knew how to appear quite frightening. To avoid this, equestrian figures were sacrificed. This was believed to keep the mounted tax collectors away. Source: Interview with the Lobi informant Binaté, village Gbomblora, Gaoua, region Poni, Burkína Faso, by Wolfgang Jaenicke Some of the information is generated by artificial intelligence and is based on published sources from the fields of ethnography, archaeology, and art history. Informant Bakari M*A*Z*1*8*6*3*8*1* The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits.