Fanti Fertility Doll (#2) - Ghana.

Price: $385.00


 


The Fanti are part of the Akan group of ethnicities of Ghana, who all have matrilinear lineages. The majority of their sculpture reflects their concern with fertility and children, and they are known best for their fertility dolls and maternity figures. Many Akan peoples make no great distinctions between Akuaba fertility images and figures of different configuaration, size or material. Most figures are called Akuaba; there are also many small figures without "classic" Akuaba form but which are nevertheless used in identical or analogous situations.Their shrine sculptures are almost always female. All shrines are concerned either directly or indirectly with human fertility. Among the smaller sculptures is a chalk-whitened one which recalls the common practice of affecting powder-white skins for special days of worship and festivals to show reverence and devotion. Many cult images are similarly painted white. Standing female sculptures are sometimes carved with a child, but more commonly without. The standing female icon common in West African sculpture has various interpretations. In this example poise, dignity, and stability are the keynotes. 14" tall