The Anyi (or Agni) belong to the group of the Akan tribes (Ashanti, Baule et al.). In their artistic style, too, the Anyi display many similarities with style of their western neighbours, the Baule: see, for instance, the hairstyle and scarification marks of the present Anyi sculpture. However, unlike the usually black or red dyed Baule figures, Anyi sculptures are often undyed (as also in the present case). Also, rather than depicting ‘spirit spouses’, the – usually female – figures of the Anyi are associated with fertility. The present Anyi sculpture made of hard, light-coloured wood, is an especially beautiful example of this accomplished, finely detailed style. It depicts a very self-confident standing woman with a serious expression. Adorned with a necklace and an amulet pendant, a girdle consisting of two rows of large-sized pearls, and a slip-on loincloth. All three elements are slightly coloured in red. The arms are bent and detached from the body, the clasped hands rest on the abdomen and the left is adorned with two bangles. A figure with very beautiful, old shiny patina and minor age damage (old cracks to the front section of the feet). First half of the 20th century; H: 36 cm. (ME)

Provenance: Taylor A. Dale, Santa Fe, USA; German private collection.

Lit.: ‘The Tribal Arts of Africa’ by Jean-Baptiste Bacquart, p. 29, ill. 9, 10, p. 31; ‘Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture’ by K.-F. Schädler, p. 19.