Unique Bateba statue, Lobi culture. Female representation of a power or votive figure. It is presented on its own circular base from which emerge rough, straight, and joined legs, barely suggested, without feet; the arms are close to the trunk, bending to "frame" or point with the hands to the genital area; it would be a Bateba to favor conception. The head is long and voluminous, emerging from a neck with a kind of collar, the ears are very prominent and pointed; the treatment of the facial features is striking, irregularity dominates the face, very little detail and with a loss of symmetry, the presence of a half-smile that is almost "mocking" stands out, the entire face carved in a very schematic way, following the pattern of the entire figure.
It is a reductionist and geometric representation that emphasizes the monolithic form rather than the details. It would be included in the category of "stick sculpture" due to its schematic nature, simplicity, and asymmetry.
FEMALE FIGURE LOBI BATEBA
Burkina Faso 19th - 20th century
Bateba are sculptures created to serve as intermediaries between humans and spirits (thil). They are considered protective against evil forces, such as witchcraft, disease, and natural disasters. These figures are "activated" through rituals (sacrifices and prayers). They are usually made quickly by the head of the family, as recommended by the protective spirits; therefore, there is no "official" artist responsible for making these ritual objects. The final result depends on the maker's skill at the time. There are various types of bateba, ranging from those that protect against witchcraft to those that bring good luck, promote conception, or commemorate an ancestor. They are placed on family altars and, from that moment on, are treated like living beings, receiving food (sacrifices) and all kinds of care.
The Lobi people possess one of the simplest and most straightforward material cultures in West Africa. Their most important artistic expression is statuary; they rarely use masks, instead covering their heads with fabrics, feathers, and cowrie shells.
FEMALE FIGURE LOBI BATEBA
Burkina Faso 19th - 20th century
Lobi sculpture in general, and Bateba figures in particular, are characterized by exaggerated schematism, bordering on imprecision. This originates from ancient phallic votive stones with rudimentary engravings that attempt to evoke the features of the human face.
Condition: Shows erosion, fissures and cracks, some more noticeable on the head, sides of the arms and buttocks. Semi-dark, matte patina.
FEMALE FIGURE LOBI BATEBA
Burkina Faso 19th - 20th century
