Seated Mother and Child (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
1-This beautifully detailed carving depicts a mother tenderly cradling her child on her lap. Though her arms and hands support the child with gentle care, her erect posture and impassive face register the remote self-awareness of nobility. She sits on a miniature throne, confirming her royal status. Typical of thrones of the Akan culture, of which the Baule people are a major subgroup, the seat of this throne is supported by five pillars and has upwardly curving edges. A full-size Akan stool is on display behind this figure.
2- This beautiful Baule sculpture of a seated mother and child is positioned at DAWN in the life-cycle plan of the gallery.
According to the Kongo cosmogram, this stage of life, known as KALA, refers to rising: the beginning of a person’s life in the community.
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
