A Baule seated male figure, Ivory Coast

the male figure seated on a stool in the form of a panther,  and wearing an elaborate coiffure with two duiker horns at the front; fine blackened, partially encrusted patina.

Good condition overall. Minor checking of the wood at the front torso and right side of the head; old loss to the tips of the horns at the crown.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This imposing Baule figure from the Rosenthal Collection is a majestic representation of a high-ranked individual, probably a royal figure. The figure is seated on a stool carved in the form of a panther, the ultimate insignia of power, which would have been immediately recognizable to all Baule. Similar to another large Royal figure, formerly in the Verite collection (Encheres Rive Gauche, June 17, 2006, lot 164)  the male figure is seated on the stool carved in the shape of a leopard, with hands in a gesture to the front, probably to hold regalia.  The Van Rijn Archive contains only three figures seated on a panther out of nearly 500 figures. In addition, the rich scarification markings on the body, and the refinement in the treatment of the face and coiffure, reinforce the importance of chief portraiture.  

"Traditional Baule figures in use were always clothed with real loincloths and never appeared naked. This is consistent with Baule ethics and standards of civilized behavior. Any person over the age of reason that showed himself naked would have to be insane. Since Baule figures express and uphold ideals of civilization, figures are neccessarily dressed" (Vogel in Barbier ed. 1994). The Rosenthal figure, like other traditional Baule carving, has his loincloth wrapped and passing through a hole under his buttocks.