Akua'ba Fertility Doll Ghana

Beautiful Akuaba fertility doll from the Ashanti people of Ghana.

The dolls are traditionally carried by women hoping to conceive or to ensure the attractiveness of their unborn child.

Key features include the large, flat, ovoid head, which represents knowledge and wisdom, and an elongated neck, a sign of beauty and elegance.

The name "Akuaba" means "child of Akua," originating from a legend about a woman named Akua who carried a wooden figure to conceive a child.
These figures are treated with great care, sometimes even clothed and "fed," as part of the ritual practice.

Date: 20th Century
Origin: 
Country: Ghana
Material: Wood
Height: 31 cm
Width: 8,5cm

Provenance: Personal Collection, England

Expected surface wear with scuffs, chips, abrasions commensurate with age and use. The wood has developed a warm patina resulting from age and use.