499795 Figure pair, late 1800s to early 1900s (wood, beads) (see also CVL 499797) by Baule Culture; 49.5x9.1x13 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Baule figures carved as pairs usually represent wild bush spirits called asye usu. These spirits may intervene in the lives of individuals by taking possession of them. Unless it results in madness, the possession can lead to the person becoming a trance diviner. Finely carved, idealized human representations in wood become a temporary "home" for the spirits. Their artistry and beauty add to the status of the diviner. ); Gift of Katherine C. White; African, out of copyright.