Stylistically, this equestrian figure from the Dimbokro region in central Côte d'Ivoire belongs to the Baule sculptural tradition, whose workshops are renowned for combining idealized human figures with symbolically charged animal imagery. Such compositions served less to depict specific individuals than to visualize spiritual authority, social prestige, and mastery over the forces of both the visible and invisible worlds. The mount acts as a symbol of power, protection, and the ability to mediate between realms. The figure sits upright on a powerfully rendered animal; its raised tail and bared teeth create a sense of tense dynamism, forming a deliberate contrast to the rider's calm posture. The hair, worn close to the head, is defined by a central braided plait. Beneath prominent brow ridges, the figure directs an alert gaze straight ahead, while the closed, slightly pursed mouth conveys an expression of focused, composed serenity. Stud-like ornaments on the forehead and cheeks recall traditional scarification patterns, signifying cultural identity and idealized beauty. The bent arms position the hands on the knees, lending the composition a balanced symmetry. The torso, tilted slightly to the left, softens the strict frontality and creates an impression of living presence. The harmonious union of human and animal makes this sculpture a striking example of Baule artistry, in which formal elegance and symbolic significance are inextricably linked. A lustrous patina, fine cracks, and signs of wear bear witness to the work's long history of ritual use and its historical depth. Selected Bibliography Vogel, Susan Mullin: Baule: African Art, Western Eyes. New Haven: Yale University Press, 1997. Himmelheber, Hans: The Art of the Baule. Munich, 1960. Fischer, Eberhard; Homberger, Lorenz: The Art of the Ivory Coast. Zurich, 1979. Delafosse, Maurice: The Baule and the Agni of the Ivory Coast. Paris, 1901. Cole, Herbert M.: Icons: Ideals and Power in the Art of Africa. Washington, D.C., 1989. Informant: Bakari M*A*Z*1*7*0*7*8* 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.