Fine Baule Heddle Pulley, Côte d'Ivoire
Wood
Height 7in (17.5cm)

Provenance
Galerie Lucas Ratton, Paris
Tao Kerefoff, Paris
French Private Collection

The face of this pulley is superbly carved with the balance and beauty found in classical Baule sculpture; the front chest and back panels highlighted with incised linear and zigzag designs; the large, crested coiffure bordered by two rows of feathered designs; rich, black patina with encrustations and wear to the suspension hole and inner surface indicative of significant indigenous use.

Broken and repaired at right 'shoulder' with small remnant of glue to bottom of neck; small chip to lower lip; age distress line with separation to the back panel below the neck; age distress line to right side of head and neck; nicks, scratches, abrasions and wear consistent with age and use. Custom base.