Ashanti Acua'ba Fertility Doll

Disc-headed Acua'ba figures such as this one served an important role in Ashanti society. They began as a promise for a beautiful child, and in the event that the child disappeared, the figure would be offered to the responsible malevolent spirit in exchange for the child's safe return. Nearly two-dimensional, and exhibiting personal flair specific to the original owner, this Acua'ba is unique in our collection. The figure is bordered with hand-formed ridges and etched with intricate patterns, and diminutive facial features convey the incredible soul of this sculptural object.