Bassa Seated Female Figure Liberia

A seated female figure is carved in a strong style typical to the Bassa people. This example is a pure Bassa sculpture with all details found on typical Bassa Figures. The head and face of this figure are carved in a similar manner as the better known Bassa masks called Geh-naw that dances in graceful and feminine movements to accompany the boys when they return to their village after having been initiated into the men's society. The facial features are expressive. The elaborate braided hairstyle and markings on chest and abdomen are evidences that the figure represents a mature or initiate female. The Bassa have several female and male societies, including chu-den-zo, to whom gela (geh-naw). The Bassa are relatives of the Dan, who live to their northeast, mostly in Cote d'Ivoire. They have absorbed much from Dan culture, including the usage and appearance of their arts. Occupying the geographic center of Liberia, the Bassa live in scattered small villages, and cultivate rice and othe