Fertility Doll
Fante, Ghana
Early 20th Century


PROVENANCE: Joan Layne Collection. Acquired from Mert Simpson Gallery, New York. 1975.

Fante fertility doll’s served similar purposes as others produced throughout Ghana. This example’s exaggerated head with a flat/rectangular shape corresponds to the conception of ideal beauty. The simple arched facial features are commonly found in other forms of Fante art. The long sturdy body is devoid of arms and has original beaded ornamentation wrapped around the neck and waist. The flat nature of the dolls made it easier for the woman to carry the doll at the back of her skirt. There is an elegant geometrical carving on the back this figure.

Height: 17 in.
IN 10-12-15 / SOLD