Asante Akua'ba Big Fertility Doll Ghana MATTER COLLECTION

Among the Akan people, women bear significant responsibility in childbearing, seen as crucial to fulfilling their purpose in life. In this matrilineal society, the birth of girl babies is preferred. The tradition of the akuaba originates from the story of Akua, a childless woman seeking advice from a local shrine priest. Instructed to have a small figure carved and treat it as a real child, she eventually gave birth to a daughter, astonishing her friends who exclaimed, "Akua, wo ba ni" (Akua, this is your child). Subsequently, barren women among the Akan use carved akuaba figures to seek children, either keeping them as companions or placing them in shrines after childbirth as offerings and reminders.

These figures, often adorned with white clay when used in shrines, communicate messages to the spirits. At home, akuaba are dressed, accessorized, and styled with carved hairstyles. Some may have facial scars, not for aesthetics but to deter spirits from reclaiming them. Families who have lost children may mark the figures to mislead spirits who seek beautiful children, preventing them from returning them to the spirit world.

Provenance: Matter Collection

From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.

Repaired breast.

Height (in): 26.0
Width (in): 9.5
Depth (in): 3.0

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