GREAT! Ancient female initiation statue, GURUNSI, Nrd Ghana, 1930-40

Beautiful old female hard wooden initiation statue. The face with hairdress has a strong, powerful appearance with relatively little processing. The body also exudes strength, reinforced by the slightly bent arms, with the hands resting on the hips. The legs are sturdy and the feet are flat on a wooden base that is customary for the Gurunsi. The wood is very heavy and dark in color with a somewhat shiny patina. A large shrinkage crack on the spine and a few small ones on the front. Below is some more information about these types of images, which are only offered in dribs and drabs.

Length: 37 cm, including foot 40.5 cm
Width: 14 cm
Weight: 1351 grams
Origin: Northern Ghana
Date: 1930-40
Provenance: Obtained in situ by Peter Beaujean

The Gurunsi are an ethnic group that mainly live in southern Burkina Faso. They are known for their unique art and cultural traditions, including the production of statues used during initiation rituals.

Initiation rituals are important rites of passage in Gurunsi culture, initiating youth into adulthood. These rituals are crucial for affirming social status and passing on cultural knowledge from one generation to the next. The initiation statues play a central role in these rituals.

The statues are made by craftsmen within the community and often have a wooden base. They are richly decorated with symbolic carvings and can have different meanings depending on the context of the initiation ritual. The statues are often seen as representations of ancestors or spirits and are believed to possess supernatural powers that protect the young and bless them as they transition into adulthood.

In the initiation rituals, the young are often isolated in a remote location away from the rest of the community and undergo a series of trials and ceremonies. These rituals are often intense and can last several weeks.

It is important to note that while the Gurunsi initiation statues are an interesting cultural aspect, they are also considered cultural heritage and should therefore be approached with respect and understanding. Every element of these cultural practices has deep roots in the tradition and spirituality of the Gurunsi people.