Contemporary Colonial Figure – Alfie

Description

Colonial statues from Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire) are unique and often complex pieces that emerged during the colonial era—roughly from the late 19th to mid-20th century—when European colonial powers occupied West Africa. These statues were typically carved by local artisans and reflect a blend of traditional African artistic expression and European colonial influence.

1. Cultural Context

• These statues are not part of traditional African ritual or ancestral art, like masks or fertility figures.

• Instead, they often emerged as commentary or observation during colonial rule—sometimes satirical, sometimes commemorative.

• Some were made for sale or as tourist curios, while others were created as a form of subtle resistance or documentation.

2. Visual Characteristics

• The figures are often depicted in European-style clothing—suits, hats, military uniforms, or clerical garments.

• They may portray colonial administrators, soldiers, missionaries, or schoolteachers.

• Despite the European attire, the carving style remains distinctly African: expressive faces, exaggerated features, and stylized proportions.

• Materials are typically local hardwoods, such as iroko or cola, sometimes painted or stained.

3. Symbolism

• These pieces can carry layered meanings—both a record of changing times and a critique of power dynamics.

• They may reflect how local communities viewed the colonisers or how artisans adapted their skills for new markets.

4. Collecting and Value

• Today, colonial statues are highly collectible, valued for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and rare blend of cultures.

• They sit outside traditional ethnographic categories, making them appealing to collectors interested in cross-cultural or transitional art.