雄羊の頭を持つ大型の動物形スツール – バウレ族 – コートジボワール – 木彫り – 20世紀

Large zoomorphic stool with ram's head – Baule – Côte d'Ivoire – Carved wood – 20th century

Origin: Côte d'Ivoire
People: Baule / Baoulé
Type: Large zoomorphic wooden stool
Material: Carved wood
Dimensions: 67 × 23 × 29 cm
Weight: 8.5 kg
Period: First half of the 20th century
Provenance: Ex private French collection

An imposing Baule zoomorphic stool from Côte d'Ivoire, distinguished by its remarkable sculptural presence, powerful animal representation and finely incised geometric decoration.

Carved from a substantial piece of wood and measuring 67 cm in length, this impressive stool combines the functional architecture of traditional African seating with the expressive qualities of animal sculpture.

The most striking feature is the beautifully modelled head of a horned animal, most probably a ram. Two powerful, deeply ridged horns curve backwards above the head, framing the pointed ears. The elongated muzzle, prominent eyes surrounded by finely incised patterns, and carefully carved facial details give the animal an almost lifelike expression.

The broad, gently concave seat extends across the animal's back, creating a remarkably harmonious silhouette. Its generous proportions and substantial weight of 8.5 kg reinforce the monumental character of the piece.

The sides are particularly attractive, with elaborate geometric decoration combining lozenges, chevrons, hatched fields and parallel incisions. The precision and rhythm of this ornamentation provide a fascinating contrast with the softer, more naturalistic modelling of the animal's head.

The wood displays a beautiful, varied patina. Deep brown and almost black tones cover the head and decorated sides, while the seat has acquired a warmer, lighter surface through wear and handling. The pronounced, uneven wear to the feet reveals the natural colour of the underlying wood.

Among the Baule, wooden stools form an important part of traditional material culture, combining practical use with social and artistic significance. This particularly elaborate example stands apart through its large dimensions, zoomorphic conception and rich surface decoration.

Beyond its ethnographic interest, the stool has a remarkable presence as a sculptural object. Its powerful proportions, expressive animal head and strong geometric architecture give it a distinctly contemporary visual appeal.

An impressive and highly decorative Baule stool, appreciated for its unusual scale, expressive ram-like head, finely carved ornamentation and rich, contrasting patina.

Condition

Old condition with substantial signs of age and use.

Pronounced and uneven wear to the lower parts of the feet, with visible losses of wood and areas of exposed lighter timber.

Age-related cracks, notably across the seat and around the animal's head. Small chips, abrasions, scratches and surface irregularities throughout, including minor losses around the facial details.

The principal sculptural elements, including the head, horns and geometric side decoration, remain well preserved.

Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form an essential part of the condition description.

Included

The zoomorphic wooden stool only.

No display stand included.