GJPaw Auctions is pleased to offer a stunning carved and painted wood slingshot, called potomo waka, from the Baule people, Ivory Coast, West Africa. Baule society is marked by great individualism, dislike of strict political structures, age classes and even secret societies, so prevalent among other tribal cultures. Their artwork can feature subjects ranging from idealized figures to deities and bush spirits in the forms of masks, figurative sculptures and utilitarian objects such as the slingshot. To the Baule, slingshots were much more than a weapon. They were miniature works of art believed to hold talismanic powers. Baule fathers often commissioned slingshots for their sons to hunt small game such as birds and rabbits. It was a rite of passage for a young Baule boy to master his slingshot before becoming a “warrior,” but far from being toys, these weapons were considered objects of value and spiritual significance. They would continue to be carried long after childhood as a form of protective amulet or good luck charm. Slingshots share similarities to larger Baule sculptural works. In terms of posture, both slingshot and sculptural figures often have their hands resting on their midriff in a gesture of peacefulness and their faces reflect a sense of meditative composure. Faces were thought to look out for danger from all directions; and some would even be carved upside down so the spirit in the carving would be 'right side up' when the hunter held the slingshot for use. Animal motifs channeled the natural power and prowess of the animal being depicted while serving as a reminder about dangers in the wild.  As an art form they are as beautiful and beguiling as any other type of Baule artwork; and viewed collectively they may be considered a distinct collecting category displaying enormous diversity and uniqueness. This superb example measures 4 inches in width by 1 inch in depth by 7 inches in height (10.1 cm by 2.54 cm by 17.7 cm), including the specially designed, hand-made, iron, museum display stand. It is in very good condition and dates to the late 20th century. A fabulous collector’s item, coming from an important Midwest collection of African art, it is guaranteed authentic and would make a fine addition to any collection of African art.

GJPaw Auctions has been in the Art business for over 25 years and is now expanding its operation to eBay.  Our goal is to bring the same experience and excitement of collecting that we have been delivering in-person to collectors across the globe at Primitive in Chicago.  Every object we sell online has been carefully hand-selected with special attention to detail, quality, and significance. We ship worldwide. Add GJPaw to Sellers you Follow and please take a moment to look at our other auction items.

 

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