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Most contemporary batiks display familiar images of people and animals. Some, such as this History Batik, recount an important event in West African history. This particular piece tells the story of queen Ablapouco of the Baoule people.
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Facing destruction at the hands of the Akan people, she led her people out of modern Ghana into present-day Cote d'Ivoire. Her escaped blocked by the raging Black Volta river, she offered her only child as a sacrifice to the spirits for their help.
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History Batik
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The spirits responded. Dozens of hippos lined up in the river forming a bridge for Queen Ablapouco's people. After they crossed, the hippos swam back into the river, preventing the Akan from following. The spirits were impressed by the Queen's sacrifice, and spared the life of her child. This History Batik is 55" tall by 72" wide. A one of a kind masterpiece. $300.
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The cooperative also boasts some fascinating dolls, starting with the Asante Poupee. These contributions from nearby Ghana are hand carved and adorned with cowry shell jewelry. Choose a male-female set in dark or light wood ($18/set).
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Asante Dolls
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Medium Echassier
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Small Echassier
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Medium Echassier
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These unusual pieces from Northern and Western Cote d'Ivoire are the artist colony's finest. The Dan Echassiers(dancers) are representations of traditional dress during any type of cultural, religious, or social ceremony for the Dan (or Bete) people. Their faces are covered with "family masks"--masks which identify you and your family members to the rest of the group. Small dancers (above, middle) have flexible arms; 3-4", $8 each. Medium dancers (above right, left) stand 9-10", $30 each. Large dancers (below) are 16-20" tall, $55 each.
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