This Baule figure of wisdom from the Dimbokro region in central Côte d'Ivoire embodies the idealized ancestral and authority figures that, within the Baule religious worldview, served as symbols of wisdom, composure, and spiritual mediation. Such sculptures were placed in family shrines and served as a material presence for protective and stabilizing forces, whose influence was intended to maintain the community's social equilibrium. Standing on a small base, the male figure is distinguished by an exceptionally balanced composition. The closed eyes and inward-looking gaze lend the face a meditative serenity, while the strong chin and tapering facial structure enhance the sculpture's three-dimensional impact. The hairstyle consists of two tower-like braids arranged one behind the other, emphasizing the sculpture's verticality. Small, triangular ears frame the face, where closed, full lips underscore an expression of inner composure. An intricately braided, rounded beard extends from beneath the chin, terminating in a spherical knob; this feature signifies age, dignity, and spiritual authority. Stud-like ornaments on the temples, neck, abdomen, and back evoke traditional scarification patterns, simultaneously referencing Baule cultural identity and aesthetic ideals. The arms held close to the body - with hands resting on the abdomen - and the slightly bent knees imbue the figure with a quiet vitality. The clearly defined male genitalia allude to fertility and the continuity of the ancestral lineage. Traces of wear and fine cracks bear witness to the object's long history of ritual use and its significant age. Selected Bibliography Vogel, Susan Mullin: Baule: African Art, Western Eyes. New Haven 1997. Himmelheber, Hans: The Art of the Baule. Munich 1960. Delafosse, Maurice: The Baule and Agni of the Ivory Coast. Paris 1901. Fischer, Eberhard / Homberger, Lorenz: The Art of the Ivory Coast. Zurich 1979. Cole, Herbert M.: Icons: Ideals and Power in the Art of Africa. Washington D.C. 1989. Informant: Bakari M*A*Z*1*6*6*4*4* 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.