BoW-3 / Akua'ba - Akan (Asante), Ghana

Height: 11.25 in / 28.6 cm

ex LJ Kumps, Antwerp (1975)
ex collection Beukelaer, Antwerp/Marbella
ex Dr Gunzburg, Antwerp
ex Phillip Konzett, Vienna
ex Louis Nierijnck, The Netherlands

Wood, pigment, beads, string

A very classic figure with a compelling expression. I am especially drawn to the asymmetry of the ears and the pronounced downward slant of the eyes. Over the years, I have owned only a few examples that adhere closely to the classic akua’ba type, having generally been more attracted to figures that depart from the iconic norm. This one stood out immediately because of its downward-slanting eyes, a feature more commonly associated with Lobi yadawora figures than with akua’ba.

That lowered gaze suggests calm restraint and inward focus, qualities I find especially appealing. It is an uncommon treatment of the eyes on an akua’ba figure, and I cannot recall encountering another example with this degree of slant or with such a strong emotional presence.

$2500 plus shipping