Exceptional Bateba statue from the Lobi group. Male representation of a power or votive figure. It is a standing statue, with a very elongated and slightly inclined body, arms extended and close to the trunk pointing to the genital area, short and separated legs slightly bent, the lower part of the body barely suggested, following the pattern of the entire figure. Extraordinarily schematic and imprecise, of great simplicity, with essential geometric lines and a stylized face with minimal and asymmetrical features, with eyes positioned at different levels; the head is crowned by a kind of cap. The thickening in the middle of the neck stands out.
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, asymmetry, and imbalance.
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 by the head of the family quickly, as recommended by the protective spirits; there is no "official" artist responsible for their creation, therefore the final result depends on their momentary skill. There are several types of bateba, ranging from those that protect against witchcraft to those that bring good luck, favor conception, or commemorate an ancestor. They are placed on family altars and, from that moment on, are treated as living beings and, as such, receive food, in the form of 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 manifestation is statuary; masks are unusual; instead, they cover their heads with fabrics, feathers, and cowrie shells for their ceremonies and dances. Lobi sculpture in general, and the bateba figures in particular, are characterized by exaggerated schematism, bordering on imprecision. This originates in ancient phallic votive stones with rudimentary engravings that attempt to evoke the features of the human face.
Figure on an iron pedestal.
Condition: Shows loss of volume in the legs, more pronounced on the right, and part of an arm, palpable effects of the attack of wood-boring insects (wormholes). The rest of the body shows erosions, slight fissures and cracks, the one on the back being the most striking. Dark matte patina.
LOBI MALE FIGURE "BATEBA"
Burkina Faso, 20th century
