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Female Figure (akua'ba)

1925–50
Wood, glass beads, and natural fiber
Overall: 35 cm (13 3/4 in.)
Gift of Katherine C. White 1974.211
Location: not on view
This artwork is known to be under copyright.

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Did You Know?

The large, high forehead and the rolled flesh of the neck reflect Akan standards of beauty and health.

Description

An infertile woman would be advised by a priest to commission such a sculpture and care for it as if it were her baby. With the aim to induce fertility, or to ensure the birth of a healthy and beautiful daughter, the akua'ba figure is carried on the woman's back inside her wrapper. After a successful birth, the figure is placed in the priest's shrine as an offering, or it is given to the newborn as a toy.
Female Figure (akua'ba)

Female Figure (akua'ba)

1925–50

Africa, West Africa, Ghana, Akan-style artist

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