Superb old standing statuette - Lot 11

Superb old standing statuette Baule culture, Ivory Coast Wood with beautiful patina H. 45 cm Provenance: Gaston de Havenon Collection, New York City - Gaston de Havenon Collection (1904-1993), New York City - Cazeau Collection, Paris Publications and exhibitions: - The de Havenon Collection, by Robbins (Warren M.), Washington, D.C.: Museum of African Art, 1971, no. 103 - African Art: The de Havenon Collection, Museum of African Art, Washington, D.C., USA 30 May-3 October 1971 - De Quay-Lombrail, Paris, Collection Gaston de Havenon, Drouot-Montaigne, 30 June 1994, no. 20 This statuette is a pure example of the Baule classicism favored by Saint Germain des Prés dealers René Rasmussen and Robert Duperrier, friends and suppliers of Gaston de Havenon from the 1950s onwards. All the characteristics of a nuclear style, originating in the southern Baoulé region between the capital Yamoussoukro and the sub-prefecture of Bouaké, can be found here. It combines the rigor of the almost military posture, with the outstretched arms clinging to the upright body, and the softness of the beautiful face set in a heart whose upper part emphasizes the arches protecting the outstretched eyes with closed, slightly puffy eyelids. Another specificity of the genre is the extreme sophistication with which the beard and hairstyle are treated. A glance at the back of the statue reveals the originality and delicacy of the cadogan holding back the classic braid, as well as the curved loins and scarification decoration on the back. The male figure, of the usual size, has preserved a lacquered brown patina that bears witness to the many anointings he received in his previous life, whether as Blolo Bian or Asie Usu. Bertrand Goy