This colonial figure from the Baule region of Bouaké belongs to a special group of West African sculptures created during the colonial period and the early decades of the 20th century. Such depictions reflect the encounter between local artistic traditions and new social realities, documenting the incorporation of foreign clothing, lifestyles, and status symbols into the Baule visual culture. These are not mere representations of colonial presence, but rather independent artistic interpretations of societal transformations. The sculpture depicts an upright woman of remarkable serenity. Her head slightly raised towards the sky, her closed eyes, and the hint of a smile lend the figure a contemplative, almost ethereal aura. The meticulously crafted, three-part braided hairstyle alludes to traditional Baule beauty ideals, while the pearl and shell necklace underscores its decorative and symbolic character. The clothing is particularly noteworthy: the yellow dress with pockets and a black belt reflects colonial-era fashion influences and marks the figure as belonging to a new social reality. The hands tucked into the pockets lend the figure an unusual naturalness and individuality, distinguishing it from the more idealized religious sculptures of the Baule school. The red-pigmented skin and black-painted hair combine traditional color concepts with the depiction of modern clothing. Abrasion and fine cracks document age and use, making the figure a striking testament to cultural adaptation and artistic innovation in colonial West Africa. Literature (Selection) Susan M. Vogel, Baule: African Art, Western Eyes, New Haven 1997. Philip Ravenhill, Africa and the Renaissance of Modern Art, New York 1988. Herbert M. Cole, Icons: Ideals and Power in the Art of Africa, Washington D.C. 1989. Monica Blackmun Visonà et al., A History of Art in Africa, New York 2008. Eberhard Fischer / Hans Himmelheber, The Art of the Ivory Coast, Zurich 1984. Jacques Kerchache, Jean-Louis Paudrat and Lucien Stéphan, African Art, Paris 1988. MAZ13950