Baoule Ivory Coast. This masterfully and elegantly carved couple is made from one piece of wood and has great attention to detail finely carved faces and coiffeurs. Less common in Baule art are carved figures of a seated man and woman, such as this, that represented a married couple and were most likely not linked to the spirit world. The figures with their arms around each other have solemn and dignified expressions with the female being slightly taller than the male, which is often a feature in coupled figures. One thing that isn't distinctly visible in the photographs, but is apparent when viewing the couple in person, is the slight downward tilt of the female figure while the male figure is looking straight ahead. Carved by a highly skilled Baule sculptor and most likely dates after 1955. It is a very beautiful and uncommon example of Baule art that stands on its own artistic merit. 30'' tall.