PAIR OF SEATED BAOULÉ STATUES IVORY COAST In polychrome wood and glass beads H. (female figure): 54 cm (21¼ in.) H. (male figure): 50.5 cm (19? in.) A seated Baule couple, Ivory Coast Provenance: Collection of Jean-Jacques Rotthier (1932–2009), Brussels, then by inheritance  Intended for divination rituals, these figures are distinguished by their idealised beauty, designed to attract an asye usu, a spirit of nature, and encourage it to take up residence within the sculpture. They embody the Baoulé ideals of beauty through the elegance of their hairstyles, the delicacy of the scarification patterns adorning their faces and backs, and the care taken in the depiction of their adornments. Their slightly downcast gazes, their measured demeanour and the power of their muscular legs convey both a dignified reserve and the vigour of youth. Remarkably well-preserved, they have retained their original surface as well as traces of their polychromy. Unlike many Baoulé sculptures collected in the past, they have not been subsequently polished or artificially blackened. A BAULE SEATED COUPLE IVORY COAST Polychromed wood H. (female figure): 21¼ in. H. (male figure): 19? in. Provenance: Jean-Jacques Rotthier Collection (1932–2009), Brussels, then by descent This impressive pair of figures was created for divinatory practices. Their idealised beauty was intended to provide a desirable abode for an asye usu, a nature spirit, and encourage it to inhabit the sculptures. The figures embody Baule ideals of beauty through their elegant hairstyles, refined scarifications and carefully rendered ornaments. Their downcast gazes, composed postures and powerful legs combine dignity with youthful vitality. Preserved in remarkable condition, the figures retain their original surface and traces of their polychromy. Unlike many early-collected Baule sculptures, they have not been subsequently polished or artificially darkened.