{"product_id":"vintage-22-bozo-fertility-figure-mali-african-carved-wood-dancing-doll-statue","title":"Vintage 22\" Bozo Fertility Figure | Mali African Carved Wood Dancing Doll Statue","description":"\u003cp\u003eDescription:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdd a striking, sculptural masterpiece to your collection with this vintage, hand-carved wooden figure from the Bozo people of Mali. Measuring 22 inches in height, this highly stylized, abstract carving is historically known as a fertility or dancing doll. With its distinctive coiffure, exaggerated features, and beautifully dry, aged patina, it is a captivating example of West African tribal artistry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCultural \u0026amp; Historical Context The Bozo people of Mali are historically known as \"masters of the river,\" living predominantly along the Niger River. Their art is highly distinctive, deeply symbolic, and heavily sought after by collectors of abstract African sculpture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFertility \u0026amp; Dance: Figures like these are traditionally associated with youth associations (sogo ba) and vibrant masquerade performances. They are utilized in celebratory dances to encourage agricultural abundance, community prosperity, and human fertility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStylized Aesthetics: The carving exhibits classic West African abstraction. The prominent breasts are a universal symbol of motherhood, nourishment, and female fertility, while the elongated neck represents local ideals of beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Artistry \u0026amp; Details Carved from a single piece of solid wood, this sculpture demonstrates the carver's incredible mastery of geometric form and balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Headdress: The figure features a deeply carved, elaborate hairstyle or headdress with a central crest and heavy tresses flanking the face, framing its deep-set eyes and angular profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Form: A long, smooth neck transitions into a cylindrical torso highlighted by prominent, conical breasts. The entire figure rests on a sturdy, integrated dome-like base.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCulture\/Origin: Bozo People, Mali\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMaterial: Hand-carved wood\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: 22\" Height x 7.5\" Width x 7\" Depth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eType: Fertility Figure \/ Dancing Doll\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMounting: Free-standing on its own integrated circular base\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition Report Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the description.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSurface Wear: This is a vintage, handcrafted artifact that beautifully displays the natural wear and heavily dry patina of its age and environmental exposure. It features a rustic, unpolished wood surface with expected minor scuffs and edge wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWood Character: Prominent, natural age-related surface cracks (desiccation cracks) are visible, particularly across the face, head, and base. This is highly common in older, thickly carved African woodwork and adds to its authentic, tribal character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStructural Integrity: Despite the natural wood splitting, the carving remains solid, heavy for its size, and is highly stable on its base.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Belle Afrik Arts","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":60049645666590,"sku":"BA-1186","price":250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1081\/5176\/7326\/files\/il_fullxfull.8116471039_at4q.jpg?v=1790372388","url":"https:\/\/belleafrikarts.com\/products\/vintage-22-bozo-fertility-figure-mali-african-carved-wood-dancing-doll-statue","provider":"Belle Afrik Arts","version":"1.0","type":"link"}