ANYI OR ATTIE, IVORY COAST OR GHANA

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Maternity figures appear in many forms and traditions across sub-Saharan Africa. Sometimes representing protective ancestral spirits, they are often created to support the fertility of an aspiring mother and to ensure a safe and successful birth for both the mother and the expected child. While their morphology varies, they are united in their expression of the importance of motherhood, honoring the central role of women in the continuity and nurturing of the community.

This lovely free-standing figure depicts a nursing mother cradling her infant child. Her body is robust and youthful, with strong, round limbs and upright posture, tall neck, and a large head with impressive coiffure. An expression of serenity and joy graces her face, with softly modeled brows and a subtle smile. Beaded accessories are found at the ears and encircling the legs and ankle.

Possessing and displaying figures such as this one could be a sign of social status within the community. They were often associated with women who were respected for their fertility and had raised many children. Repair to old crack on the belly.

For another example by the same hand or atelier, see accession number 2016.37.46 in the Crocker Museum, Sacramento, USA.

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