Mouse oracle (glekle se)

MediumWood, hide, pigments, and fiber

Dimensions6 1/2 x 9 1/4 inches (16.5 x 23.5 cm)

CultureBaule peoples

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of William W. Brill

Terms

Côte d'Ivoire
Sculpture
and fiber
Divination objects
Male nudes
Female nudes
Baule

Object number88.026.021

Label CopyBRIEF DESCRIPTION This is an oracle, called a glekle se, used by a Baule diviner to answer questions or explain phenomena. WHERE WAS IT MADE? This was made in the Ivory Coast, in a Baule community. HOW WAS IT MADE? The oracle was likely carved from wood by a blacksmith with hand tools such as an adze, knives and chisels. The surface was brightly painted. HOW WAS IT USED? A Baule diviner consults the glekle se in order to advise an individual seeking assistance, wisdom, or simply an explanation for an event from the supernatural world. The diviner places tiny batons (sometimes attached to a tray) along with food inside the container; the bottom of the container is left open, allowing a mouse to enter through a small hole at the base, eat the food, and disturb the batons. After the mouse has exited, the diviner interprets the baton arrangement and offers his client fairly specific advice. Baule diviners believe that mice, due to their proximity to the powerful earth, have a special ability to communicate with nature. WHY DOES IT LOOK LIKE THIS? Glekle se vary in style, but often incorporate human faces, or one or more full figures. These figures do not have a symbolic function; Baule diviners and sculptors claim that the figures are purely decorative. Six figures – three male, three female – surround this mouse oracle. Each of the figures has an individualized coiffure, fleshy limbs, and a rounded abdomen, all of which evidence good health and appropriate bodily maintenance. When painted at all, female figures are frequently painted red, and male figures are painted black. However, there are many exceptions to this generalization. Notice the full, distended breasts on the women; this shows that they have raised many children. The downcast eyes imply humility and privacy—qualities praised in Baule communities.

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