Lot: 186
(20th century)
Grand Bois (the tree god who guards the forest) and Twin figures
fabric, mosaic of sequins and beads in hand painted frame,
overall with frame: 23 x 22.875 inches overall with frame: 27.75 x 23.5 inches,
unsigned. embroidered M lower right.
annotated verso: Haitian Flag Makers ID 141 Grand Bois Traditional sequined flags or Drapo Vodou, are made for celebratory and ceremonial use in Haitian Vodou rituals. The figures represented are usually symbols of the Lwa, or spirits of the Vodou pantheon. Some of the Lwa and their motifs have origins in west and central Africa, and many have strong associations to Catholic saints as well. Erzulie, the governess of love and motherhood, is often symbolized by a heart, Dambala, the sky spirit, appears as a snake, the often ominous- looking Baron or Guede is the master of death but also of healing, and Grand Bois the tree man guards the forest and the sacred mapou, on which temples are modeled. In addition to the oungans (priests and priestesses) who sew the flags with the help of their congregations, many Haitian artists unaffiliated with a particular temple have been drawn to this colorful medium in recent decades.
Artist: School, Haitian
Auction Date: March 20, 2021
Estimate: $600 - 800