Large African Elegant Ewe Doll Figure from the Ewe people of Togo and Ghana.
Circa 1930's or earlier. Collected by Rita in the 1980's..
Ewe dolls were treasured by the women who owned them, and were often kept hidden under mattresses to ensure fertility. The fractures or traces of repair were considered part of their power as a talisman, an indicator of the well being of future generations. Ewe women keep the dolls underneath them while sleeping to ensure fertility. These feminine Ewe dolls also are traditionally dressed in beautiful dresses during a woman's pregnancy to distract any evil from coming to the pregnant mother or baby.
Fairly large at 19 inches / 48 cm tall. Some wear and cracks visible due to age and use but in solid shape.
Artifacts and Antiques 220