Akua mma Doll
Akan/Ashanti from Ghana, early 20th C. PROVENANCE: acquired by Ruth Bawman, NY, from Mathias Komor Gallery, NYC, March 29, 1973. Remains of gallery label, with remnants of inventory number, still visible on back of doll.

Akua mma dolls are known for the long neck, round face, high forehead, and small mouth. These characteristics are synonymous with Ashanti ideals of beauty and were carried by expectant mothers in order to encourage their unborn child to be beautiful. This example is in great condition and exhibits a beautiful dark brown/black patina, suggesting it was carried and used often. The head is large and circular, the face expertly carved with some facial scarring. The body's a-symmetry is intriguing. The long stylized neck down to the base of the sculpture is perfectly carved. The back of the sculpture is just as beautiful. The neck and body are similar to the front, but the back of the head has been decorated with an a-symmetrical lined pattern.

Height: 12" in.
IN 12-11-13 / SOLD