Mouse Oracle – Terracotta – Baule – Ivory Coast

Mouse oracles were used by diviners. A mouse was placed in the upper part with some rice. When the mouse moved, the rice was displaced. Then the diviner made predictions by “reading” the position of the rice, moved by the mouse. The mouse oracle is made from wood and is in good condition with a great patina of use.

Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany.

Object:	Mouse Oracle
Ethnic group:	Baule
Country:	Ivory Coast
Material:	Wood
Estimated period:	Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:	No
Dimensions:	30x30x20 cm
Weight:	3500 gram
Condition:	Good condition, used with some signs of wear